By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) will conduct its final outdoor field Training Exercise for Cadets of 70 Regular Course Army and Airforce Regiment and Direct Short Service Course 27 Army and Course 31 Airforce nicked named Exercise CAMP HIGHLAND in Plateau and Kaduna States from 30 July 11 August 2023.
In a Press Statement signed and made available to Newsmen in kaduna by the Public Relations Officer of the Academy Major Victor Olukoya.
The Exercise is designed to test the cadets leadership skills, physical fitness, as well as command and control abilities, among other military competencies.
It further explained that "The Exercise is an important military training activity used in ascertaining the preparedness of the cadets for Commissioning as Officers into the Nigerian Armed Forces.
"Phases of the Exercise that would take place in Plateau State include Map Reading Exercise at Heipang and Adventure Training at the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, Shere Hills, Jos from 30 July 4 August 2023.
Furthermore, Tactical Drills and Battle Inoculation Drills would take place in Kachia general area from 31 Jul- 11 August 2023.
The statement maintained that "Consequently, communities living around Heipang and Shere Hills, Jos in Plateau State would observe mass movement of military personnel, vehicles and equipment in the general area from 30 July 4 August 2023.
Similarly, residents of KATUL CROSSING - FADAN KAMANTA axis in ZANGON KATAF Local Government Area of Kaduna State will observe same tactical drills involving firing /simulation of small arms and artillery fire from 31 July 11 August 2023.
The statement enjoying Residents in the general areas mentioned above are therefore advised not to panic but to go about their normal daily routine activities without fear. They are to however, report any breach of security to the nearest authorities.
"Furthermore, Battle Inoculation, which would involve live firing of small arms, Armour and artillery weapons will be conducted from 8 11 August 2023 within the Military Exercise Area near Nigerian Army Base Camp, Kachia. Therefore, locals around ANINKWA, INSAME and neighboring communities are advised to stay away from the live firing area during the period of the exercise.
The statement inform that "On our part, all necessary safety measures and arrangements have been put in place to ensure safety in the exercise areas.
"We wish to appeal for cooperation from the local communities directly affected by the Exercise and Nigerians as a whole as we train future military leaders for our Armed Forces.You are please requested to use your medium to enlighten the general public particularly, the inhabitants of the aforementioned areas.
"While the statement thanking you for your usual cooperation, please accept the esteemed regards of the Commandant, Nigerian Defence Academy.