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In a decisive step towards strengthening Nigeria’s national security and counter-terrorism capacity, the Federal Government has graduated the first batch of 800 elite Special Operations Forces (SOF) troops.

According to a statement signed by the Principal Superintendent of Press (PSP) on behalf of the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Echi Ochanya Kate, the historic ceremony took place on Tuesday, 1st July 2025, at Camp Kabala in Jaji, Kaduna State.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, described the graduation as a landmark achievement in the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the country.

Dr. Matawalle emphasized that the Special Operations Forces programme is a key component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s broader defence modernization agenda. This includes advanced military training, procurement of state-of-the-art equipment, and the integration of cutting-edge intelligence systems for better operational outcomes.

“You are now Nigeria’s frontline guardians in our collective war against terror, banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency,” the Minister told the graduating troops. “You embody the resolve of our nation—proof that Nigeria will not succumb to fear.”

He reminded the soldiers that while they have been equipped with world-class tools and training, the true determinants of battlefield success remain character, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty.

“As you prepare for deployment in high-risk areas like Zamfara, Kaduna, and the North-East, remember your mission is not one of conquest, but of peace,” Dr. Matawalle charged. “You carry not just arms, but the honour of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the hopes of every Nigerian—farmers, students, children, and elders. Be swift, be strategic, be just. Operate with precision. Fight with courage. Lead with honour. And always protect with humanity.”

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, also commended both the trainees and their instructors for their resilience and dedication throughout the rigorous training process.

“The Special Operations Forces are a vital pillar in our national defence architecture,” Ambassador Aduda stated. “Their elite skills are indispensable in countering insurgency, terrorism, and other evolving asymmetric threats. The Federal Government remains committed to building a modern, professional, and highly motivated military capable of addressing today’s complex security challenges with precision and confidence.”

In his address, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, called on the newly graduated troops to uphold the highest standards of discipline, ethics, and professionalism.

“The Armed Forces is a disciplined and dignified institution,” General Musa stressed. “Let your moral compass guide every mission. Protect the innocent, uphold our laws, and honour your uniform.”

General Musa extended his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Ministers of Defence, the Permanent Secretary, the training directors, and all those who contributed to the success of the Special Operations Forces programme.

The graduation of this first cohort of SOF personnel marks a critical milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to improve its defence capabilities and tackle internal and external security threats more effectively. The deployment of these elite troops is expected to make an immediate and measurable impact in areas plagued by insecurity.

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