The Nigerian Army has announced plans to conduct a live-fire training exercise in Gombe State, urging residents not to panic at the sound of gunshots during the period.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 301 Artillery Regiment (General Support), Lt. Kingsley Ugwuoke, said the range classification exercise would take place from March 30 to March 31, 2026, at the regiment’s Small Arms Range in Liji.
According to the Army, the exercise forms part of its routine operational drills designed to maintain combat readiness and improve troop efficiency.
Ugwuoke described the exercise as a critical component of military training conducted twice annually across formations nationwide, noting that it is aimed at sharpening soldiers’ weapon-handling skills.
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“The training is designed to refresh the skills of professional soldiers and enhance their proficiency in weapon handling to achieve effective results during operations,” he said.
He added that the drill would also serve as an assessment of troops’ preparedness for combat and other assignments.
The Army, however, issued a warning to residents living around Liji and adjoining communities, particularly farmers and hunters, to stay away from the range area throughout the exercise.
“All communities situated around the area are advised not to panic on hearing gunshots,” Ugwuoke said, stressing that the activity is controlled and part of scheduled military operations.
He further called on community leaders and the media to disseminate the information widely to avoid unnecessary alarm and ensure public safety.
