The Nigerian Army has begun deploying 600 soldiers to India for specialised jungle and mountain warfare training aimed at strengthening their combat readiness in challenging terrains.
The first batch of 300 soldiers departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday, 22 October 2026, aboard two Indian Air Force aircraft: a C-17 and an Airbus A321.
The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, saying the training would enhance the military’s capacity to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
According to the statement, the programme is part of the efforts of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to develop a professional and combat-ready force capable of tackling terrorism, insurgency and other criminal activities.
Anele said the training would equip the soldiers with the skills required to operate effectively in forests, mountainous regions and other difficult environments.
She added that the initiative aligned with Shaibu’s command philosophy, which prioritises operational effectiveness, realistic training, personnel development and improved combat readiness.
The Army said the deployment would also strengthen defence cooperation between Nigeria and India while supporting efforts to protect lives and property and safeguard the country’s sovereignty.
The statement noted that arrangements were underway to transport the remaining 300 soldiers to India for the specialised training.
Major General UG Yusuf, Coordinator of the Nigerian Military Training Support and Advisory Team at Army Headquarters, represented the Chief of Army Staff at the departure of the first batch. The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria was also present at the event.
