Nigeria Deploys 2,400 Elite Troops to Crush Bandits, Terrorists
In a bold move to combat terrorism, banditry and other security threats, the Federal Government has launched a 2,400-strong Special Operations Force (SOF). The first batch of 800 troops has already begun intensive training at Camp Kabala in Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State.
Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, unveiled the initiative, highlighting its goal of strengthening security agencies’ ability to counter insurgency, transnational crimes and asymmetric threats.
“This training has been meticulously designed to develop highly skilled personnel in special combat tactics, counterterrorism operations, intelligence gathering and hostage rescue missions,” Badaru stated.
He emphasized that the program will ensure trainees are well-equipped to handle high-risk missions in complex environments, adapting to evolving security challenges. He also assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to providing modern weapons, surveillance systems and intelligence tools to enhance operational effectiveness.
With Nigeria grappling with security crises across various regions—from terrorism in the Northeast and banditry in the Northwest to kidnapping in the South and IPOB-related activities in the Southeast—the Special Operations Force is expected to play a critical role in national defense.
Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, described the training as a crucial step in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
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“Our forces must be well-trained, equipped, and capable of responding swiftly, effectively, and decisively,” Gen. Musa stated.
He reiterated that the Special Operations Force will serve as the military’s frontline response to threats within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, represented by his deputy Hadiza Balarabe, praised the initiative as a testament to the government’s commitment to security.
“In today’s security environment, threats continue to evolve. We must equip our Armed Forces with the best training, cutting-edge tactics and resilience needed to overcome these challenges,” she stated.
The 800 personnel currently undergoing training are the first of a planned 2,400 elite troops, with more batches to follow as part of a long-term strategy to enhance Nigeria’s military capabilities.
