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First Batch of 800 Elite Special Forces Graduates to Bolster Nigeria’s Security Operations
In a significant boost to Nigeria’s fight against insecurity, the Federal Government has graduated the first batch of 800 elite Special Operations Forces (SOF), trained to take on critical counterterrorism and internal security operations across the country.
The graduation ceremony, held at Camp Kabala in Jaji, Kaduna State, was presided over by the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, who described the milestone as a bold step in strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture.
Dr. Matawalle emphasized that the development aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic vision of modernizing the Armed Forces through advanced training, cutting-edge equipment, and integrated intelligence systems.
“You are now Nigeria’s frontline guardians in our collective war against terror, banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency,” the minister told the newly graduated personnel. “You embody the resolve of our nation—proof that Nigeria will not succumb to fear.”
As the elite forces prepare for deployment in high-risk theatres such as Zamfara, Kaduna, and the North-East, Dr. Matawalle urged them to act with precision, honour, and humanity. “You carry not just arms, but the hopes of every Nigerian. Be swift, be strategic, and be just,” he charged.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, praised the graduates and instructors for their dedication and resilience. He underscored the critical role of the Special Operations Forces in countering evolving threats such as terrorism, banditry, and other asymmetric warfare.
“The SOF represents a vital pillar in Nigeria’s defence strategy,” Aduda said. “Their elite skills are indispensable in addressing emerging security challenges with speed and accuracy.”
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, congratulated the graduates and reminded them of the Armed Forces’ enduring values of discipline, ethics, and professionalism.
“Let your moral compass guide every mission. Protect the innocent, uphold our laws, and honour your uniform,” the CDS advised, while expressing appreciation to the President, Ministers of Defence, and all those involved in the successful execution of the training programme.
The graduation of this first SOF cohort marks a turning point in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to build a modern, capable, and mission-ready military force, poised to confront both internal and external security threats head-on.
