Army deploys 600 troops to India for training

The Nigerian Army has initiated the transfer of 600 soldiers to India for advanced jungle and mountain warfare training, according to a statement released on Friday. The initial contingent of 300 soldiers left Abuja on Thursday, October 22, 2026, via two Indian Air Force aircraft, a C-17 and an Airbus A321. Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, explained that the training aims to boost the troops' combat readiness in challenging terrains, thereby reinforcing Nigeria's ability to protect its territorial integrity.

Major General UG Yusuf, the Coordinator of the Nigerian Military Training Support and Advisory Team, accompanied the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to oversee the departure. The exercise highlights the Chief of Army Staff's dedication to fostering a versatile, combat-ready force capable of combating terrorist activities and insurgent threats in remote and rugged areas.

Colonel Anele emphasized that this initiative will bolster defense cooperation between Nigeria and India and reaffirm the army's commitment to maintaining a resilient and mission-ready force for safeguarding national sovereignty and the safety of its citizens. Further preparations are underway to transport the remaining 300 personnel to India for the same training regimen.