The Nigerian military has introduced a specialized combat unit to strengthen its fight against terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.
A total of 2,400 troops, under the newly formed Special Operations Force (SOF), are undergoing intensive training at Camp Kabala in Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State.
The first batch of 800 personnel is currently engaged in rigorous drills to prepare for high-risk missions.
Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru, who unveiled the initiative, emphasized that the training is designed to enhance security forces’ capacity to combat asymmetric threats, including insurgency and transnational crimes.
He reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to equipping the unit with advanced weaponry, surveillance technology, and intelligence tools.
According to Badaru, the program is focused on developing elite personnel skilled in counterterrorism tactics, intelligence gathering, and hostage rescue operations.
The training will also foster collaboration between the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies to enhance coordinated responses to threats.
Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa described the initiative as a milestone in Nigeria’s security strategy.
He underscored the evolving nature of modern warfare and stressed the need for well-trained forces capable of responding swiftly and effectively to emerging threats.
Nigeria continues to grapple with security challenges, including terrorism in the Northeast, banditry in the Northwest and Northcentral, and a rising wave of kidnappings extending into the Southwest.
The Southeast remains affected by the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), while the South-South region faces persistent oil theft and pipeline sabotage.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, represented by his deputy Hadiza Balarabe, hailed the training as a strategic step toward strengthening national security.
He noted that evolving threats demand advanced military strategies, urging trainees to embrace the rigorous program as they prepare for complex operations.
Officials confirmed that the SOF training is part of a broader strategy to develop a world-class special operations unit within the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The program is expected to expand to accommodate additional personnel in the future.