The Nigerian Army has completed the training of 60 newly recruited soldiers to strengthen operations against oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta. The programme, conducted in Delta State, focused on internal security, counter-insurgency, and protection of critical oil and gas infrastructure.
The soldiers, drawn from the 89 Regular Recruit Intake, underwent the exercise less than two months after graduating from the Nigerian Army Depot. The training took place at the headquarters of the 3 Battalion in Delta State.
The exercise was supervised by the Commander of 63 Brigade, Brigadier General Moronfolu Shonibare, and the Commanding Officer of 3 Battalion, Major Abdulaziz Haruna. Representatives of other security agencies were also present.
The seven-week programme commenced on January 5, 2026. It covered crowd control operations, peace enforcement procedures, anti-terrorism tactics, weapon handling, and regimentation. Emphasis was placed on safeguarding civilian lives and securing oil installations across the region.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony on Monday, Brigadier General Shonibare described the training as foundational to the soldiers’ careers. He stated that the programme was structured to prepare them for operational realities, particularly internal security assignments and counter-insurgency operations in the oil-producing region.
He noted that the Niger Delta remains central to Nigeria’s economy due to its oil resources, making the protection of facilities in the area a strategic national responsibility.
Shonibare added that the training aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s operational vision of building a professional, adaptable and combat-ready force capable of functioning effectively within joint and multi-agency environments.
Earlier, Major Haruna explained that the curriculum was designed to equip the recruits with essential operational skills required for deployment. He stressed the importance of sustained collaboration with other security agencies and private security operators working in the region.
He urged the soldiers to uphold the unit’s motto, “Ever Ready,” and apply the knowledge acquired during the programme in the discharge of their duties.
Oil theft and pipeline vandalism continue to pose significant challenges to Nigeria’s oil industry. Criminal networks in the Niger Delta frequently breach pipelines and operate illegal refining sites, leading to revenue losses and environmental damage.
