The Nigerian Army has graduated 384 female soldiers of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake (90 RRI) following the successful completion of Exercise SHINING STAR 2026, a military training program designed to strengthen their physical fitness, weapons-handling skills and operational readiness.
The passing-out ceremony took place on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Giri, Abuja.
The development was announced on Thursday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Nigerian Army Women Command, Major Nsima Essien, in a statement shared through the Army's official X account.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, was represented at the ceremony by Major General Umar Gital Yusuf.
Exercise SHINING STAR 2026 was organized to improve the military competence, discipline, physical endurance and combat preparedness of the participating personnel.
During the program, the female soldiers underwent demanding physical and military exercises aimed at preparing them for the responsibilities associated with service in the Nigerian Army.
One of the major highlights was a series of weapons-handling demonstrations in which the soldiers displayed their ability to dismantle and reassemble AK-47 rifles while blindfolded.
The demonstration highlighted their familiarity with military equipment, confidence, coordination and ability to perform basic weapons-handling tasks under challenging conditions.
The soldiers also participated in obstacle-crossing exercises, demonstrating physical strength, endurance and determination throughout the training program.
According to the Acting Commander of the Nigerian Army Women Command, Colonel S. M. Ahmed, the exercise involved 384 female personnel from the 90 Regular Recruit Intake. The program also featured 14 male personnel from the Headquarters, Directorate of Army Physical Training (HQ DAPT), as well as 70 male personnel from the 167 Special Forces Battalion. Their participation provided additional support for the training activities and demonstrations.
Colonel Ahmed acknowledged the contributions of the military authorities, instructors and other personnel whose efforts helped ensure the successful completion of the exercise.
She also emphasized that continuous training remains essential to improving the professional standards and operational effectiveness of military personnel.
Speaking through his representative, the Chief of Army Staff commended the newly trained female soldiers for their dedication, resilience, discipline and commitment throughout the exercise.
Major General Umar Gital Yusuf described the successful completion of the programmed as an important milestone in their military careers.
He encouraged the soldiers to maintain the highest standards of professionalism while carrying out their responsibilities, stressing the importance of teamwork, courage, loyalty and discipline.
He further reminded them that military training should not end with the completion of a particular exercise.
According to him, continuous professional development, physical fitness and operational preparedness remain necessary for military personnel to respond effectively to Nigeria's changing security challenges.
He subsequently declared Exercise SHINING STAR 2026 closed.
The passing-out ceremony also recognised personnel who distinguished themselves during the training programme.
Eight male and female participants received awards presented by the Acting Commander of the Nigerian Army Women Command.
The recognition was aimed at appreciating outstanding performance and encouraging professionalism, discipline and healthy competition among military personnel.
Senior military officers from different units and formations, representatives of paramilitary agencies and other invited guests attended the ceremony.
Other activities included a vote of thanks delivered by one of the beneficiaries, the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph to commemorate the successful completion of the exercise.
The graduation represents another step in the Nigerian Army's efforts to improve the professional capacity of its female personnel.
Over the years, the role of women in Nigeria's military has continued to expand, with female personnel contributing to several areas of military service, including intelligence, medical support, administration and operational assignments.
The establishment of the Nigerian Army Women Command also provides an institutional structure for developing female personnel and addressing their professional training needs.
Programmes such as Exercise SHINING STAR are important because they strengthen the practical skills required for military service while promoting discipline, confidence and physical preparedness.
As Nigeria continues to confront security threats, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities, the development of a well-trained and professional military workforce remains a national priority.
The training of 384 female soldiers is significant for Nigeria's defense sector for several reasons.
First, it demonstrates the importance of continuous military training in preparing personnel to respond to demanding operational responsibilities.
Second, it highlights the contributions and capabilities of women in the Nigerian Armed Forces, particularly in areas requiring physical endurance, technical competence and military discipline.
It also reinforces the importance of providing female soldiers with opportunities to improve their professional skills and contribute meaningfully to national security.
Beyond the graduation ceremony, the real value of the exercise will depend on how effectively the soldiers apply their acquired knowledge and skills in their respective military assignments.