Residents of Lokoja and nearby communities have been advised to remain calm and vigilant as the Nigerian Army commences a scheduled live-fire training exercise in the area.
The military assured the public that the activity is routine and aimed at strengthening operational efficiency, while urging residents not to be alarmed by gunfire or increased troop presence.
The exercise, organised by the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, is set to run from March 30 to April 2 at the Chari Maigumeri Shooting Range. According to a statement issued in Lokoja on Monday by the Brigade’s spokesperson, Lt. Hassan Abdullahi, the training represents the unit’s first annual range classification exercise.
Abdullahi explained that the drill is designed to sharpen the shooting accuracy of personnel and evaluate the performance and reliability of military weapons.
He noted that such exercises are critical to maintaining combat readiness and ensuring troops are well-prepared to respond effectively to emerging security threats.
The Army further emphasized that the training forms part of broader efforts to reinforce security operations, particularly in tackling banditry and related challenges in the region.
Residents of Shettima, Zango, and surrounding communities were specifically cautioned to stay away from the shooting range for safety reasons, while also being encouraged to spread awareness of the exercise within their localities.
