Enugu, Nigeria – The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 82 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Hassan Taiwo Dada, has called on the graduants of the Second Quarter Basic Battle Course 5 of 2023 to stay physically and mentally alert in tackling the various criminal challenges plaguing the country. The GOC delivered this charge during the graduation ceremony held at the 82 Division Training School training area in Abakpa Cantonment, Enugu, on July 20, 2023.
Addressing the freshly graduated soldiers, Major General Dada emphasized that the course had not only enhanced their individual physical fitness but also fostered a strong sense of teamwork. He praised the participants for developing endurance and mental alertness, crucial attributes that enable soldiers to withstand the rigors of battle, including extreme weather, hunger, fatigue, and sleep deprivation.
During his speech, the GOC expressed his gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, for providing unwavering support to the Division and for allocating necessary resources for the course. He also commended the Division Training Officer (DTO) and instructors from the 82 Division Training School for their unwavering commitment in ensuring the successful conduct of the course.
Brigadier General Okhume Ejere, the DTO, delivered a warm welcome address, expressing appreciation to the GOC for his unyielding support that contributed to the course’s success. The DTO highlighted the course’s primary objectives, which focused on exposing soldiers to realistic training scenarios, developing their individual capabilities, and fostering a sense of teamwork.
The students received comprehensive training during the course, which encompassed areas such as Counter Insurgency Operations, Field Training, Counter Improvised Explosive Devices training, Tactical drills, and Weapon Handling, among others. These training modules were designed to equip soldiers with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle the diverse security challenges faced in the country effectively.
Commending the students for their exemplary conduct during the training period, the DTO urged them to uphold the values instilled in them and to become exemplary ambassadors of the school and the Nigerian Army in their future engagements.
The graduation ceremony featured captivating demonstrations of tactical field exercises, the presentation of certificates to the graduants, and a memorable group photograph to commemorate the occasion. The event symbolized the culmination of the students’ hard work and dedication to their training, preparing them for the challenges that lie ahead as they assume their roles in safeguarding the nation’s security.
The Nigerian Army continues to prioritize comprehensive training and preparedness of its personnel to confront and overcome the various security threats affecting the country. Through initiatives like the Second Quarter Basic Battle Course, the Army reinforces its commitment to maintaining a vigilant and capable force dedicated to safeguarding the nation and its citizens.