By: Zagazola Makama
The Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army has concluded a two-day Field Training Exercise (FTX) designed to sharpen the operational efficiency and tactical competence of its troops in ambush and counter-ambush operations.
The exercise, which took place from October 13 to 14, 2025, began with a comprehensive lecture at the 176 Guards Battalion Training Hall, General O.A. Azazi Barracks, Gwagwalada, and progressed to a field phase conducted along the Rafin Zurfi–Ibua axis.
Speaking at the event, the Commander, Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Onasanya, who served as the Special Guest of Honour, commended the Commanding Officer, 176 Guards Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Oladimeji Ajongbo, for his initiative and leadership in organizing the training.
He said the exercise was in line with the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede’s training philosophy, which emphasizes continuous troop development, tactical innovation, and operational readiness to effectively respond to emerging security challenges in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and its environs.
Brigadier General Onasanya further noted that regular field training exercises were crucial for maintaining combat alertness, discipline, and cohesion among personnel, especially those tasked with the security of the nation’s capital.
During the practical phase, troops demonstrated high levels of professionalism through tactical deployment, precision movement, ambush execution, and immediate counter-ambush drills. The maneuvers were carefully supervised by senior instructors and evaluated by Army Headquarters’ representatives to ensure adherence to modern combat standards.
The event also featured an interactive session where participants reviewed tactical approaches, discussed lessons learned, and made recommendations for improved field performance in future exercises.
The training exercise ended with the presentation of souvenirs and commendation plaques to officers, instructors, and participants who distinguished themselves during the sessions.
Brigadier General Onasanya reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to operational excellence, professionalism, and continuous improvement in line with the Army’s vision of building a well-trained, well-equipped, and highly motivated force capable of addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.
> “Our mandate as the Guards Brigade is clear — to defend the seat of power and respond effectively to any threat within our area of responsibility. This can only be achieved through consistent and realistic training,” he said.
The exercise, which drew praise from observers and military stakeholders, once again underscores the Nigerian Army’s resolve to sustain high training standards and reinforce its readiness to safeguard the Federal Capital Territory and its neighboring states.
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