Abuja: The Guards Brigade, Nigerian Army, has conducted a two-day field training exercise to boost troops’ proficiency in ambush and anti-ambush operations. The exercise, tagged ‘Exercise Heavy Strike’, was held at the 176 Guards Battalion in Gwagwalada, and along the Rafin Zurfi-Ibua route in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this information was contained in a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Guards Brigade, Lt. Odunola Olawuyi. The exercise was opened by the Commander Guards Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, who stated that it was designed to sharpen troops’ combat readiness and tactical response to emerging security threats.
Brig.-Gen. Onasanya emphasized that the training aligns with the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede’s directive to prioritize continuous and realistic field training to enhance operational effectiveness. He highlighted the commitment of the Guards Brigade to continuous training and professionalism to ensure effective security within the Federal Capital Territory and adjoining states.
He further noted, ‘Training remains the backbone of the army’s efficiency. Exercises like this help to build the confidence, alertness, and combat instincts needed for success in real operations.’ Brig.-Gen. Onasanya also commended the Commanding Officer, 176 Guards Battalion, Lt.-Col. Oladimeji Ajongbo, for organizing the exercise and ensuring effective participation by officers and soldiers.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the exercise included lectures on ambush and counter-ambush tactics, followed by field demonstrations of tactical deployment, engagement, and immediate reaction drills. Participants also engaged in an interactive session to review lessons learned during the training.