The Nigerian Army has announced that the 301 Artillery Regiment (General Support) will conduct its first range classification exercise of 2026 in Gombe State, signaling the continuation of its routine training programs aimed at maintaining high operational readiness.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations of the regiment, Lt. Kingsley Ugwuoke, the exercise is scheduled to take place from Monday, March 30 to Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the regiment’s Small Arms Range in Liji, Gombe State.
Lt. Ugwuoke explained that the range classification exercise is an integral part of the Army’s commitment to continuous training and skill enhancement for its personnel. “The exercise is a major training requirement for troops of the Nigerian Army, conducted twice a year across units and formations nationwide,” he said.
He further elaborated that the exercise is designed to test and certify soldiers in the safe and effective handling of small arms, including marksmanship, weapon maintenance, and tactical firing techniques. The classification process ensures that soldiers meet the required standards and are adequately prepared for operational duties.
According to military sources, the exercise will involve both junior and senior personnel of the regiment and will be conducted under strict supervision to ensure adherence to safety protocols and operational discipline. The training will also provide an opportunity for officers and soldiers to refresh their knowledge and skills, assess the efficiency of their weapons, and identify areas for improvement.
The Nigerian Army has emphasized that regular training exercises like this are crucial for maintaining the high level of combat readiness expected of its units. In addition to enhancing individual proficiency, such exercises also promote unit cohesion, teamwork, and operational coordination among soldiers.
Lt. Ugwuoke encouraged the public and local communities in Gombe State to cooperate with the regiment during the exercise, assuring them that all safety measures have been put in place to avoid any disruption or risk to civilians. He also highlighted that the Army remains committed to national security and will continue to prepare its personnel to respond effectively to any internal or external threats.
The upcoming range classification exercise in Liji, Gombe State, underscores the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the operational capacity of its troops while reinforcing discipline and professionalism within its ranks. With a structured schedule of biannual training exercises across the country, the Army aims to sustain readiness levels and ensure that soldiers remain highly capable in fulfilling their national security mandate.
