In alignment with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to “advance the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force,” the 1 Division Training School (DTS) has graduated 87 soldiers of the 90 Regular Intake following the successful completion of Exercise Shining Star X/26.
The graduation ceremony took place on Friday, 25 September 2026, at the Division Training School, Dalet Barracks, Kawo, Kaduna.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Ajemasu Yake Jingina Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations1 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA said the graduating soldiers are slated for immediate deployment across various theatres of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to reinforce ongoing security operations.
The Special Guest of Honour, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA was represented by the Chief of Staff, 1 Division, Brigadier General TM Opurum. In the graduation address, Brigadier General Opurum stated that the COAS approved the exercise to strengthen army formations, enhance operational readiness, and build unwavering resilience, teamwork, and professionalism among the troops.
He explained that the comprehensive training curriculum comprised rigorous field exercises, live fire drills, battle inoculation, land navigation, watermanship, tactical motorcycle operations, and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) awareness. These activities were deliberately designed to prepare the soldiers for the realities of prevailing security challenges within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.
The GOC further noted that the training successfully tested and elevated the soldiers’ endurance, mental alertness, and cohesion. By exposing the troops to simulated combat fatigue, stress, and sleep deprivation, the exercise sharpened their battle readiness to withstand the intense demands of active combat. He urged the graduates to apply their newly acquired skills, maintain strict discipline and loyalty, and adhere unconditionally to the Nigerian Army’s code of conduct and rules of engagement.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Acting Assistant Director, Army Physical Training and Divisional Training Officer (DTO), Lieutenant Colonel Pharouk Mohammed, stated that the trainees underwent eight weeks of intensive tactical, weapon-handling, and counter-terrorism training designed to transform them into highly disciplined and capable combatants. He expressed pride in presenting 87 battle-ready soldiers who met all training requirements in both character and learning, standing fully prepared to discharge their constitutional duties with courage.
Speaking on behalf of the graduands, the Course Leader, Private Kapnim Bitrus, expressed deep appreciation to the GOC, DTO, and instructors for their steadfast guidance. Describing the training as “educative and rewarding,” Private Bitrus noted that the practical drills provided realistic combat exposure, leaving them fully prepared for immediate deployment.
The event featured high-intensity tactical demonstrations, including a rapid stripping and assembling competition of personal rifles, alongside a dynamic counter-ambush display. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the graduating soldiers and a formal group photograph.
