The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has inspected the Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces (DHQ SOF) training facility in Bida, Niger State, where selected Nigerian Army personnel are undergoing rigorous elite training designed to produce operators capable of handling special tasks with precision and discipline.
During the visit to 18 Brigade, Nigerian Army, as part of his operational tour, the COAS assessed the ongoing training with the Defence Special Operations Forces (DSOF) Training Group. He received detailed briefings on the structure, scope, and objectives of the programme aimed at producing highly skilled and mission-ready operators.
The Army Chief emphasised that graduation from elite training carries an obligation of instant readiness, warning that special operations forces must always be prepared to act without delay when national security demands it.
He stressed the Army leadership’s resolve to strengthen special operations capabilities in response to evolving security challenges.
Lieutenant General Waidi commended the DHQ SOF Training Group for its commitment, dedication, and professionalism in delivering the demanding training, noting that the quality of instruction and discipline on display reflected the high standards expected of elite forces tasked with complex and sensitive operations across the country.
He further urged the trainees to remain focused and give their best throughout the course, stressing that they must be fully prepared to undertake special tasks immediately upon graduation.
The Army Chief emphasised that elite forces play a critical role in national security and must consistently demonstrate excellence, resilience, and professionalism.
Earlier, the Commander, Defence Headquarters Special Operations Forces Brigade, Brigadier General Sani Usman Ibrahim, briefed the Army Chief on the scope, structure, and progress of the ongoing elite forces training programme.
The engagement concluded with a symbolic presentation of a souvenir to the Chief of Army Staff, marking the Army leadership’s emphasis on strengthening special operations capability as a core pillar of modern military response.
Lateefah Ibrahim