Nigerian Army Graduates New Battalion to Enhance Security

On October 10, 2026, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff, presided over a graduation ceremony for a new battalion at the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Doma, Nasarawa State. The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, stated that the expansion of the Army’s divisions from eight to 12 necessitated additional specialized capabilities to enhance operational readiness and security coverage.

The new battalion aims to bolster the military's response to emerging threats, including drones and improvised explosive devices used by terrorists and criminal groups. The soldiers underwent six months of intensive training, which included a 20-obstacle course and the school's first maze, to prepare them for challenging environments.

Shaibu emphasized the importance of discipline, sound judgment, and respect for human rights, stating that operational success should not compromise public confidence. Major General Valentine Okoro noted that the training addressed current operational demands, while Brigadier General Umar Abubakar praised the rigorous training completed by the soldiers.