Nigerian Army to conduct live-fire training in Bauchi, urges calm

Nigerian Army to conduct live-fire training in Bauchi, urges calm

By Ahmed Muhammad, Bauchi

The Headquarters of the 33 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army has announced plans to hold a range classification exercise at the Shadawanka Small Arms Range in Bauchi State.

The exercise, according to a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Lt. Esther Fagbolagun, will run from April 27 to April 30, 2026, between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily.

Ms Fagbolagun said the exercise forms part of the brigade’s routine training aimed at improving soldiers’ proficiency in weapon handling and marksmanship.

“The exercise is part of our annual training programme designed to enhance troops’ efficiency in weapon handling and the application of marksmanship principles,” she said.

She added that personnel would undertake live-fire drills to evaluate their readiness.

“It will involve accurate shooting drills and test firing of personal weapons to assess the overall battle readiness of our personnel,” she said.

The army advised residents of Shadawanka and neighbouring communities to expect increased troop movement and intermittent gunfire during the period.

Ms Fagbolagun, however, reassured the public on safety.

“All necessary safety measures have been put in place to ensure that there is no threat to lives and property during the exercise,” she said.

She urged residents not to panic.

“We appeal to members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities. We also call on community leaders and stakeholders to help disseminate this information for wider awareness,” she added.