The Nigerian Army has further boosted the capacity of its troops with an intensive training package, codenamed “Exercise FAST BOLT III”, conducted at the Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC), Kotangora, Niger State on 11 July 2025.
The 21-week training which was undergone by troops of Special Operations Battalion, designated Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Intervention Battalion 10, was aimed at enhancing the troops’ operational
competence and mission orientation.
The COAS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede Nigerian Army
Medal mni was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and Commander Sector 1 Joint Task Force North-West Operation FANSA YAMMA, Major
General Mayirenso Lander Saraso, emphasized that the training was a reflection
of his Command Philosophy, which places high premium on combat readiness
through consistency and standardized mission orientation.
He stated that the Exercise was revitalized and conducted in
double stream and was extended from 3 to 6 months to deepen and enhance the troops’ operational competence and tactical acumen.
The COAS further added that the Exercise will continue to provide a vital platform for the Nigerian Army to sustain its personnel for
deployment across various theatres of operations.
He also commended the troops for their outstanding performance, noting that it demonstrates and affirms the effectiveness of the training approach.
In his welcome address, the Commander Nigerian Army Training
Center (NATRAC), Major General John Omolaja Sokoya congratulated the trainees for their perseverance, resilience, ruggedness and stated that their training is a mission oriented training initiative aimed at enhancing the operational
competence of our troops.
Stressing that NATRAC is an elite training institution saddled with the responsibility to conduct realistic mission specific training in variety of current and future operations in order to provide troops with requisite combat proficiency skills in support of COAS
Command Philosophy.
He enjoyed them to put into practice all that they have learnt from the Center. Adding that it will continue to provide a vital platform for the Nigerian Army to sustain its efforts towards adequately preparing its personnel for deployment across various theatres of operations.
He urged the trainees to imbibe the spirit of warrior ethos that have been instilled in them.
In another development, the event witnessed special promotion decoration of a soldier from NATRAC Admin Battalion for act of gallantry. Sergeant Joshua Danju who rescued Armoured vehicle and other
armaments during an attack at Kwana Dutse while under heavy gun fire was
decorated Staff Sergeant as approved by COAS.
Highlights of the event include training review, tug of war,
presentation of certificates, tree planting and commissioning of two newly
constructed twelve family Corporal Below Quarters to alleviate accommodation
challenge in NATRAC.
