The Nigerian Army has trained 384 female recruits in military skills, weapons handling and physical endurance following the successful completion of Exercise SHINING STAR 2026 in Giri, Abuja.
The recruits, drawn from the 90 Regular Recruit Intake (90 RRI), participated in the training exercise aimed at strengthening their military competence, discipline and operational preparedness.
The passing-out ceremony took place on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Giri, with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General W. Shaibu NAM, represented by Major General Umar Gital Yusuf.
According to a statement shared on the Nigerian Army’s official X handle on Thursday, the COAS’s representative commended the newly trained soldiers for their resilience, dedication and commitment throughout the exercise.
He described the completion of the training as a significant milestone in their military careers, urging them to demonstrate courage, loyalty, teamwork and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
He also stressed the importance of continuous training, physical fitness and operational readiness in tackling the country’s evolving security challenges.
Earlier, the Acting Commander of the Nigerian Army Women Command, Colonel S. M. Ahmed, said Exercise SHINING STAR 2026 was designed to improve the physical fitness, military competence and overall readiness of the female personnel.
Ahmed appreciated the military authorities, instructors and other personnel who contributed to the successful execution of the exercise.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the demonstration of military skills by the recruits, including obstacle-crossing activities and weapons-handling drills.
The female soldiers also demonstrated their proficiency in stripping and assembling AK-47 rifles while blindfolded, showcasing their confidence, precision and familiarity with basic military operations.
Ahmed disclosed that 384 female personnel participated in the exercise alongside 14 male personnel from the Headquarters, Directorate of Army Physical Training, and 70 male personnel from the 167 Special Forces Battalion.
The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, representatives of paramilitary agencies and other invited guests.
Eight personnel who distinguished themselves during the exercise received awards from the Acting Commander of the Nigerian Army Women Command in recognition of their performance.
Other activities at the event included a vote of thanks delivered by one of the beneficiaries, the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph.
The exercise underscores the Nigerian Army’s continued efforts to improve personnel training, strengthen professional standards and enhance the operational capabilities of its troops amid the country’s security challenges.
