Nigerian Army To Conduct Live Firepower Demonstration, Field Exercise In Bauchi

The Nigerian Army Armour School, Bauchi, has announced plans to conduct a firepower demonstration and field training exercise, codenamed ‘Exercise Thunder Strike 2026’, aimed at enhancing the combat proficiency and operational readiness of its officers and soldiers.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the acting deputy director of Army Public Relations, Major Adekunle Adeyemi, the School disclosed that a firepower demonstration for cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) will be held on June 25, 2026, at the Victor Kure Armour Range along the Bauchi-Jos road in Bauchi State.

The statement further revealed that the field training phase of the exercise will take place from June 29 to July 2, 2026, within Alkaleri local government area of the State and other designated operational locations.

According to the Army, residents should expect increased movement of troops, armoured fighting vehicles, military equipment and low-flying aircraft during the exercise period.

Military activities on June 25 will be concentrated around Zaranda Hill and Geji Village in Bauchi local government Area. Subsequent operations from June 29 to July 2 will extend to Bara in neighbouring Gombe State, Bashar and Dengi in neighbouring Plateau State, Karim and Muri in Taraba State, as well as Alkaleri and neighbouring communities in Bauchi State.

The Army School advised residents, especially farmers and herders, not to be alarmed by the sound of live gunfire, stressing that comprehensive safety measures have been put in place to ensure the exercise is conducted without incident.

Members of the public were also urged to avoid designated training areas throughout the duration of the exercise for their safety.

The training is expected to culminate in a live firepower demonstration by Armoured Fighting Vehicles on July 2, 2026.

The Nigerian Army Armour School appealed to media organisations and community stakeholders to assist in sensitising the public to ensure awareness, cooperation and the successful conduct of the exercise.