By Nkechi Eze
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, has announced the graduation of the first batch of 800 elite Special Operations Forces (SOF), describing it as a major milestone in the Federal Government’s strategic commitment to ending insecurity across Nigeria. The graduation ceremony was held at Camp Kabala in Jaji, Kaduna State.
In a statement signed by the Principal Superintendent of Press, Echi Ochanya Kate, Dr. Matawalle emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s broader agenda to modernize and strengthen the Armed Forces through advanced training, sophisticated equipment, and integrated intelligence operations.
Addressing the graduating troops, Dr. Matawalle declared, “You are now Nigeria’s frontline guardians in our collective war against terror, banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency. You embody the resolve of our nation? proof that Nigeria will not succumb to fear.” He underscored that while the soldiers are armed with world-class tools and tactics, ultimate victory depends on their character, discipline, and unyielding commitment to the country.
He urged the SOF graduates, who are expected to be deployed to high-risk theatres including Zamfara, Kaduna, and the North-East, to conduct themselves with integrity and professionalism. “You carry not just arms, but the honour of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the hopes of every Nigerian farmers, students, children, and elders. Be swift, be strategic, be just. Operate with precision. Fight with courage. Lead with honour. And always protect with humanity,” he charged.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, commended the dedication and resilience of both the graduating troops and their instructors. He described the Special Operations Forces as a “vital pillar in our national defence architecture,” adding that their elite capabilities are indispensable in tackling insurgency, terrorism, and emerging asymmetric threats.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, encouraged the graduates to uphold the highest standards of discipline and ethics. “The Armed Forces is a disciplined and dignified institution,” he said. “Let your moral compass guide every mission. Protect the innocent, uphold our laws, and honour your uniform.” He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the Ministers of Defence, the Permanent Secretary, training directors, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the programme.
The graduation of this first cohort of elite forces marks a significant step in Nigeria’s quest to build a modern, professional, and highly responsive military capable of confronting contemporary security challenges with precision and resolve.
