Army updates recruit training curriculum to counter terrorism

The Nigerian Army has updated its recruit training curriculum to better equip new soldiers to confront terrorism, insurgency and other emerging security threats across the country.

Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), announced the changes during the Beating of Retreat and Award Ceremony for the 90 Regular Recruits Intake at the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria on Thursday.

Olatoye explained that the curriculum review aligns training with Nigeria’s evolving security landscape. He said the revised program now provides recruits with the competencies needed for contemporary military operations nationwide.

He highlighted that the updated curriculum places greater emphasis on counter‑terrorism and counter‑insurgency, preparing soldiers for emerging threats and strengthening the army’s response capabilities.

“I am delighted to note that your training curriculum was reviewed to reflect the current security realities facing our country. As a result, greater emphasis was placed on counterterrorism operations,” Olatoye said.

The commander added that the training equips recruits to support ongoing operations against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements that threaten national security and public safety. He expressed confidence that the soldiers would contribute meaningfully to operational success once deployed, having received training tailored to modern battlefield requirements.

Olatoye reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to producing personnel capable of responding professionally to threats through continuous improvements in training doctrine, instructional methods and operational preparedness.

He praised Maj.-Gen. Ahmadu‑Bello Mohammed, Commandant of the Depot Nigerian Army, along with instructors and staff, for successfully implementing the revised program and maintaining high standards.

The demonstrations and drills showcased at the ceremony demonstrated the effectiveness of the new curriculum and the readiness of the recruits for future operational responsibilities nationwide.

Earlier, Mohammed noted that the ceremony marked the completion of training for the 90 regular recruits intake. He said the event provided an opportunity to recognise outstanding recruits and companies that distinguished themselves in military training, sporting activities and other competitive exercises.

Mohammed explained that the award ceremony was designed to reward diligence, excellence and commitment by recruits who excelled individually, while also recognising high‑performing training companies.

The 90 regular recruits began training on 21 January and will formally pass out on 20 June after completing the prescribed program.

Mohammed reported that 6,001 recruits commenced training at the institution, while 5,876 recruits successfully completed the program and are due to participate in the Passing‑Out‑Parade (POP).

He noted that the training exercise stretched the institution’s human and material resources considerably, reflecting the scale of effort required to prepare recruits for military service.

Mohammed also commended instructors, support staff and relevant stakeholders for their dedication and contributions toward the successful conduct of the training program. (NAN)

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