The Nigerian Army has successfully trained 60 young soldiers to bolster efforts in securing oil facilities and tackling oil theft in the Niger Delta.
These soldiers, part of the 89 Regular Recruit Intake, completed the training just two months after passing out from the Nigerian Army Depot. The programme took place at the headquarters of the 3 Battalion Nigerian Army in Delta State.
The training was supervised by the Commander of 63 Brigade Nigerian Army, Morounfolu Shonibare, and the Commanding Officer of the battalion, Abdulaziz Haruna, alongside representatives from other security agencies.
Throughout the exercise, the recruits received instruction in crowd control, peace enforcement, and anti-terrorism tactics, with a strong focus on safeguarding civilian lives and oil and gas infrastructure.
Speaking at the graduation on Monday, Shonibare emphasized that the training, which began on January 5, 2026, was a key step in preparing the soldiers for the responsibilities of military service.
“This occasion is not merely a graduation ceremony but a proud affirmation of your readiness to uphold the values and responsibilities expected of you as soldiers of the Nigerian Army,” he said.
He added that the programme was designed to ready the recruits for the demands of military operations, particularly internal security and counter-insurgency roles in the oil-rich Niger Delta.
Shonibare highlighted the strategic importance of protecting the region, noting that its oil resources form the economic backbone of the country.
“The training you have acquired within the past seven weeks aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy to transform the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment,” he stated.
Haruna explained that the curriculum equipped the soldiers with vital skills such as internal security operations, counter-insurgency techniques, weapon handling, and regimentation. He also stressed the critical need to protect oil installations and foster collaboration with other security agencies and private surveillance companies like Tantita Security Services Limited.
He encouraged the soldiers to uphold the unit’s motto, “Ever Ready,” and apply the knowledge gained during the seven-week training to effectively carry out their duties.
Oil theft and pipeline vandalism remain significant threats to Nigeria’s petroleum sector, especially in the Niger Delta, where criminal groups often tap pipelines and illegally refine crude oil.
