The Nigerian Army has issued a warning to residents of Enugu State to remain calm amidst noticeable troop movements and gunfire scheduled between March 17 and March 20.
Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, confirmed that this activity is part of a week-long range classification exercise aimed at enhancing the shooting skills of Army personnel.
Beginning on March 17 and concluding on March 20, the 82 Division will carry out its first range classification exercise for the year, as per the Army Headquarters Training Directives for 2025. The exercise will take place in the Army Training Area located in Udi Local Government Area, just outside Enugu.
Unuakhalu emphasized that this training initiative is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of weapons that have not been previously deployed during operations. He also reassured residents of Ogbede, Ukehe, Umoka, Affa, Ochima, and Onyohor communities that there is no need for alarm.
Residents are advised to remain calm upon witnessing military activities and to avoid the range area throughout the duration of the exercise, which will involve live ammunition. The Army appreciates the community’s cooperation during this critical training period.