The Nigerian Army has commenced the deployment of 600 personnel to India for specialised jungle and mountain warfare training as part of efforts to strengthen troops’ combat capabilities and improve operations in difficult terrains.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, initiated the deployment, with the first batch of 300 personnel departing the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday, October 22, 2026.
The troops travelled aboard two Indian Air Force aircraft, a C-17 and an Airbus A321, according to the Nigerian Army.
The specialised training is expected to equip the personnel with advanced skills for conducting military operations in forests, mountainous regions and other challenging environments where terrorists, insurgents and criminal groups may seek refuge.
The initiative also reflects Shaibu’s commitment to developing a professional, adaptable and combat-ready force capable of responding effectively to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
According to the Army, the programme aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy, which prioritises operational effectiveness, realistic training, personnel development and enhanced combat readiness.
The training is expected to improve troops’ manoeuvrability, tactical proficiency and ability to dislodge criminal elements from difficult terrains that could serve as operational hideouts.
Beyond strengthening the Army’s operational capacity, the deployment is also expected to deepen defence cooperation between Nigeria and India, particularly in specialised military training and professional development.
The Army said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to maintain a resilient and mission-ready force capable of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, protecting lives and property, and safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
The remaining 300 personnel are expected to follow as the deployment progresses, bringing the total number of Nigerian Army troops participating in the specialised training programme to 600.
