COMMANDER NATRAC INAUGURATES TROOPS OF EXERCISE FAST BOLT IV DOUBLE STREAM

Kontagora, Niger State | 26 January 2026

The Commander Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC), Major General A.G.L. Haruna, on Sunday 26 January 2026 inaugurated troops of Exercise FAST BOLT IV Double Stream at the Kontagora Military Cantonment Parade Ground.
The specialised training programme is designed to reinvigorate and enhance troops’ capacity to confront contemporary challenges and multidimensional security threats across the country.

In his opening remarks, Major General Haruna stated that the inauguration symbolised the reaffirmation of NATRAC’s unwavering mandate to adequately train Nigerian Army troops to effectively counter evolving asymmetric threats, including terrorism and insurgency. He disclosed that the training, which commenced on 19 January, will run until 8 May 2026, covering a duration of 15 weeks and 6 days.
According to the Commander, the exercise will focus on key operational areas such as battle drills, survival training, convoy drills, marksmanship, base camp security, and counter-ambush drills. Other components of the programme include the responsible use of social media, prevention of human rights violations and abuse, as well as the Armed Forces of Nigeria gender policy, among others.

General Haruna further explained that the training aligns with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, which seeks “to advance the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of decisively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.” He emphasised that the exercise is critical to building troops’ confidence and equipping them with the requisite skills to confront the nation’s prevailing security challenges.
The Commander noted that essential infrastructure has been provided to ensure a well-structured and robust training experience for all participants. He warned against any form of indiscipline, stressing that defaulters would be severely sanctioned. He also cautioned the trainees on the abuse of social media, which could bring disrepute to the Nigerian Army.

Major General Haruna charged the instructors to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, instruction, and ethical conduct, ensuring that all training activities remain relevant and effective. He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for his continued support and strategic guidance to the centre.

The Commander also thanked his Principal Staff Officers, soldiers, and administrative staff for their dedication, urging them to give their best towards achieving the objectives of the training. The inauguration ceremony concluded with three hearty cheers and group photographs with the trainees.

Godfrey Anebi Abakpa
Major
Assistant Director Army Public Relations
Nigerian Army Training Centre
26 January 2026