Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, stationed in Ohafia, Abia State, has officially announced a day and night shooting exercise scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, 2026, urging residents of Ohafia and adjoining communities to remain calm and refrain from panic during the sound of gunfire. In a public advisory issued by Captain Muyiwa Ayara on behalf of the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the military disclosed that the exercise is a core part of the 82 Division Corporals and Below Competition 2026, an event designed to enhance the operational efficiency, marksmanship, and combat readiness of participating soldiers. The shooting competition is set to take place at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Shooting Range, located in Ohafia, Abia State, and will run for a duration of eleven hours, commencing at 12:00 noon and concluding at 11:00 pm.
The military explained that the exercise is a routine military training activity and not a response to any specific security threat. According to the official statement, the primary objective is to improve the weapons handling skills and shooting accuracy of the troops, which are essential for maintaining high levels of combat readiness. The Army reassured the public that all activities will be conducted within a controlled and secure environment, and that the safety of citizens is of paramount importance. The statement, as released to the press, emphasized that the general public has no reason to fear, but must adhere strictly to the safety protocols put in place.
As part of the safety advisory, the Nigerian Army has issued a series of strict directives to ensure the well-being of residents. The public is strongly advised to stay away from the shooting range area throughout the duration of the exercise. Additionally, the Army warned against any unauthorised movement within and around the designated training zone. Residents and passersby are urged to obey all instructions and warnings issued by military personnel on the ground, as well as relevant local authorities. The Army noted that these measures are critical to preventing any accidental injuries or security breaches during the live firing sessions.
The announcement of this drill comes just a day after the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 82 Division, Major General Oluremi Fadairo, officially unveiled the Inter-Brigade Corporal and Below Competition 2026 at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Barracks in Ohafia. Speaking at the event, Major General Fadairo, represented by the Chief of Staff of the 82 Division, Brigadier General S. A. Jimoh, charged the soldiers to uphold discipline, professionalism, and excellence. He emphasized that the competition is a deliberate strategic initiative aimed at grooming junior leaders who will shoulder greater responsibilities in the Nigerian Army. The GOC noted that the event directly supports the division’s vision of enhancing operational capabilities and ensuring enduring peace and security in its area of operation.
The Commander of the 14 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmad Dikko, described the week-long competition as a significant milestone in the Nigerian Army’s training calendar. He disclosed that the event, scheduled to run from April 20 to April 24, 2026, would test participants in a wide array of military skills. These include drill routines, weapon handling, day and night shooting, physical fitness, map reading, field craft, and tactical operations. Brigadier General Dikko stated that these skills are fundamental for operational effectiveness in contemporary military engagements and stressed that the platform is vital for developing the leadership, organizational abilities, and professional competence of young soldiers.
The participation of multiple formations highlights the scale and importance of the exercise. Teams from the 13 Brigade, 34 Artillery Brigade, 82 Division Garrison, 44 Engineer Brigade, 54 Signal Brigade, and the 2 Women Battalion are taking part in the competition. Brigadier General Dikko noted that the presence of these various units reflects the unity and collective strength of the Nigerian Armed Forces. The opening ceremony featured a swearing-in of participants and umpires, followed by a drill competition that set the tone for the week-long contest.
The Nigerian Army has consistently called for public cooperation and understanding during such drills. In the official press release, Captain Ayara reiterated the military's commitment to the safety and security of all citizens, while soliciting the community’s cooperation. The Army specifically requested that community leaders and media houses disseminate the information widely to ensure that all residents are aware of the scheduled activities and the associated safety warnings. This proactive communication strategy is intended to prevent misinformation and avoid unnecessary panic among the civilian population.
Residents of the affected areas are advised to plan their movements accordingly to avoid the vicinity of the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Shooting Range during the stipulated hours. By taking these precautions, the community can help ensure that the routine training exercise concludes without incident, allowing the military to continue its mission of maintaining national security.
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