The Nigerian Army has announced the commencement of a Shooting Range Classification Exercise for soldiers undergoing Exercise Shining Star VIII.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 2 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, the exercise will hold between 8 and 12 September 2025 at the Major General O.F. Azinta Shooting Range, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan.
The statement explained that the activity, organised by the 2 Division Training School, is part of efforts to refresh and sharpen soldiers’ professional skills in weapon handling, as well as to assess their level of training and preparedness for military operations.
“The exercise is designed to mark the end of training activities for students of Exercise Shining Star VIII. It will involve the firing of live ammunition in line with their training requirements, with the aim of enhancing their proficiency and effectiveness during military duties,” the statement read in part.
Lt. Col. Okoye further appealed to residents, families within the cantonment, and communities around the range not to panic at the sound of gunfire during the period. Farmers, hunters, and other users of the area were also advised to steer clear of the range throughout the exercise.