The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has urged officers and soldiers graduating from Exercise Restore Hope IX to convert their intensive training into decisive operational success as they deploy across various theatres.
Shaibu made the call on Friday during the Final Exercise and Graduation Ceremony at the Nigerian Army Training Camp, Kachia, Kaduna State. Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, released a statement detailing the event.
The COAS emphasized that modern warfare requires discipline, adaptability, and teamwork, noting that Exercise Restore Hope is a critical pillar in the Nigerian Army’s transformation agenda. “The advanced infantry training has equipped you with enhanced marksmanship, physical endurance, combat medical skills, and the mental resilience required for sustained operations,” he said.
Shaibu stressed that operational success must uphold human rights, professionalism, and accountability to maintain public confidence. He also commended the instructors and training institutions for their high standards and assured graduates of continued support from Army Headquarters.
Maj.-Gen. Valentine Okoro, Chief of Training (Army), explained that Exercise Restore Hope, now in its 9th series, is designed to sharpen combat skills, instill resilience, and prepare soldiers for the realities of modern operations. Troops underwent rigorous training in marksmanship, direct action operations, physical fitness, combat medical skills, and Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) drills.
Shaibu formally closed Exercise Restore Hope IX and congratulated the graduating officers and soldiers. He also approved the promotion and decoration of seven outstanding instructors as a morale-boosting recognition of their excellence.