The Nigerian Army has graduated a new Special Forces battalion as part of renewed efforts to strengthen counter-terrorism operations and tackle emerging security threats across the country.
The graduation ceremony held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Doma, Nasarawa State.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the new battalion will boost the Army’s capacity to conduct specialised operations, navigate difficult terrains, and dismantle terrorist and criminal networks nationwide.
According to Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the move became necessary following the expansion of Army divisions from eight to 12, which requires additional specialised capabilities to sustain operational effectiveness.
Shaibu explained that the new battalion would enhance field formations’ ability to respond to evolving threats, including the use of drones, Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs, and other emerging tactics employed by adversaries.
The personnel underwent six months of intensive training designed to sharpen their combat proficiency, resilience, and adaptability in challenging environments.
Training facilities at the school include the Army’s most complex obstacle course, featuring 20 obstacles, and its first maze designed to help soldiers overcome fear of darkness and confined spaces while improving resilience and spatial orientation.
Charging the graduands to remain professional, the Army Chief emphasized discipline, precision, sound judgment, and respect for human rights.
“Tactical success must not come at the expense of public confidence. Intelligence-led operations, technological awareness and cooperation with other services are essential for sustainable security,” he said.
Earlier, Chief of Training, Army, Major General Valentine Okoro, said the training was tailored to meet contemporary operational demands and incorporates lessons from ongoing operations.
On his part, Commandant of the Nigerian Army Special Forces School, Brigadier General Umar Abubakar, said the graduands passed through rigorous physical and tactical drills to prepare them for specialised assignments.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu commended instructors and training partners for producing a highly trained, adaptable and mission-ready force.
The graduation comes as the Nigerian Army intensifies efforts to respond to evolving security challenges across the country.
