The Nigerian Army has initiated the transfer of 600 personnel to India to undergo specialized mountain and jungle warfare instruction. The initial contingent of 300 soldiers left Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Thursday, October 22, 2026, utilizing two Indian Air Force aircraft, specifically a C-17 and an Airbus A321.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the exercise is designed to enhance troops’ combat proficiency in difficult terrains and strengthen the army’s capacity to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity. The training exposes troops to specialized combat techniques required to operate in forests, mountainous regions and other challenging environments where conventional military operations can be difficult.
Army Leaders Witness Departure of First Training Batch
Major General UG Yusuf, Coordinator of the Nigerian Military Training Support and Advisory Team from the Army Headquarters Department of Army Training, was present at the airport to observe the takeoff of the initial group. He represented the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at the airport alongside the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria.
Colonel Anele pointed out that the program highlights the Chief of Army Staff‘s dedication to fostering a combat-ready, professional, and adaptable military force equipped to counter insurgents, terrorists, and various criminal groups active in rugged terrain, forests, and other difficult settings. Furthermore, she noted that the endeavor strengthens bilateral defense ties between Nigeria and India while demonstrating the military’s resolve to maintain a mission-capable and resilient force dedicated to protecting citizens, property, and national sovereignty.
Logistics and Next Steps
The Nigerian Army explained that mountain and jungle combat requires unique expertise, as troops frequently have to traverse unfamiliar terrain, sustain communications under harsh conditions, and synchronize tactical movements where lines of sight and physical access may be restricted. Such environments can make it harder to transport equipment, evacuate casualties and provide supplies to personnel in the field.
While the army has not publicly disclosed the specific training locations, duration of the programme, detailed curriculum or participating units, preparations are actively underway. Arrangements are underway to airlift the remaining 300 personnel to India for the training,
the statement confirmed.