The Central Naval Command (CNC), Yenagoa, Bayelsa, on Tuesday, commenced a four-day retraining of its men in marksmanship and weapon handling to reduce collateral damage during engagements.
The exercise which is holding at the 5 Battalion Barracks of the Nigerian Army, Elele, Rivers, is for small arms firing and range classification.
The second bi-annual Small Arms Firing and Range Classification exercise is organised for officers and ratings in bases and units in Yenagoa and Delta Areas.
In his opening remarks, Rear Adm. Ahmad Gaya, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Central Naval Command, said the objective of the exercise was to retrain personnel in weapons handling.
Gaya, represented by Rear Adm. Samiu Adepegba, the Chief Staff Officer, Central Naval Command, said this would be achieved using different arms, particularly; GPMG, AK47/AK56, Tavor Rifles and Pistols of various brands.
He added that this was with a view to enhancing professionalism, and expressed optimism that the set objective would be achieved the end of the exercise.
“I also want to emphasise the importance of safety at the Range. Therefore, all participants are to adhere strictly to safety rules including Range protocols,” he said.
The FOC appreciated the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, for providing all the required logistics for the Exercise.
In his remarks, the special guest of honour, Rear Adm. Noel Madugu, Commander Joint Task Force Operation Delta Safe, noted that weapon handling was an important aspect of soldiering.
“It is of note that today, Nigeria like many nations across the globe is contending with multifaceted and rapidly evolving security challenges.
“From the insidious threats posed by insurgency and terrorism in the northeast; to banditry, kidnappings and communal clashes in the north-central and northwest, including the separatist agitations in the southeast.
“Indeed, the spectrum of threats is broad and complex. Of particular concern is the maritime environment which directly impacts the roles of the Nigerian Navy.
“Stemming the tide of these threats require the deployment of personnel with sound knowledge of weapon handling. I therefore urge you all, to take the exercise more serious in other to maximise its benefits,” he said.
The JTF Commander, emphasise the importance of safety and urged participant to adhere strictly to safety procedures, established protocols and maintain range discipline.
He also appreciated the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff for providing the resources for the exercise.
