The Commander, Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC), Major General Abubakar Garba Lawal Haruna, on Friday, 16 January 2026, inaugurated troops for the Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) Batch 1 at the Kontagora Military Cantonment Parade Ground.
In a press statement signed by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Nigerian Army Training Centre, Major Godfrey Anebi Abakpa, the PDT was described as part of efforts to rotate overstayed troops in the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI Theatre.
Addressing the troops during the inauguration, Major General Haruna stated that the training, which is the first edition for the year 2026, is designed to prepare troops for mission-specific Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency Operations. He explained that the four-week programme, scheduled to run from 12 January to 6 February 2026, will focus on special warfare training.
According to him, areas of training will include battle drills, survival training, ground sign awareness, mountain warfare, convoy drills, marksmanship, base camp security and counter-ambush operations, among others.
The NATRAC Commander stressed that first-class training remains the best form of welfare for troops, noting that the PDT is part of deliberate efforts to enhance operational capacity in line with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, which is “to advance the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of decisively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.”
Major General Haruna assured the trainees that all necessary arrangements had been put in place to ensure a hitch-free training exercise. He, however, warned that indiscipline would not be tolerated, adding that any defaulter would be sanctioned accordingly.
He expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff for his unwavering support and strategic guidance to the Centre, while urging the trainees to give their best and uphold the values of professionalism. He also charged staff and instructors to demonstrate commitment and dedication towards achieving the objectives of the training.
The inauguration ceremony was rounded off with three hearty cheers and group photographs to mark the commencement of the training.
