In line with the Chief Of Army Staff Command Philosophy which states “ To advance the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more Professional, Adaptable, Combat Ready and Resilient Force Capable of Decisively Discharging its Constitutional Responsibilities Within a Joint and Mukti-Agency Environment “, the 1 Division Training School (DTS) held a graduation ceremony on Friday, 6 March 2026, for 87 young soldiers of the 86 Regular Intake following the successful completion of Exercise Shining Star IX/26.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Ajemasu Yake Jingina Acting Deputy Director Army public relations,1 Division Nigerian Army/ sector 1 operation fansar yamma said these troops are slated for deployment across various theaters of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
The graduation ceremony held at the Division Training School, Dalet Barracks in Kawo, Kaduna, marked the end of an intensive eight-week specialized training module.
The program was designed to align with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM which prioritizes a “Soldier-First Culture” and continuous mission-oriented training.
In his welcome address, the Division Training Officer (DTO), Brigadier General Abdullahi Gwani, noted that the exercise was meticulously crafted to sharpen the soldiers’ physical fitness, weapon-handling proficiency, and tactical awareness.
He praised the graduating students for their dedication, noting that the rigorous eight-week period has transformed them into resilient warriors ready to defend the nation’s territorial integrity.
Delivering the graduation speech, the Special Guest of Honour, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase, emphasized that the training—which commenced on 12 January 2026—is a direct implementation of the COAS’s vision for operational readiness.
“The inclusion of advanced modules such as night navigation, battle inoculation, and basic motorcycle operations was deliberate,” Major General Wase stated.
“These skills are essential for confronting the evolving security challenges within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.”
He further commended the soldiers for the “brilliant demonstration” of skills showcased during the ceremony, expressing confidence that the objectives of Exercise Shining Star IX have been fully realized.
The comprehensive curriculum included live firing sessions (day and night), watermanship, Improvised Explosive Device awareness, and counter-insurgency operations.
Representing the graduates, the course leader, Private Henry Daniel, expressed gratitude to the GOC, DTO and the instructors.
He described the training as “educative and rewarding,” noting that the practical exercises provided them with a realistic preview of combat and prepared them for immediate deployment.
The event featured high-octane demonstrations, including a stripping and assembling competition of personal rifles and a tactical counter-ambush display.
The ceremony concluded with a presentation of a certificate to the graduating students and a group photograph.
