8 Division Nigerian Army Graduates 17 Pioneer Armoured Vehicle Crewmen to Boost Counter-Terrorism Operations

The 8 Division of the Nigerian Army has graduated its first batch of 17 Armoured Combat Support Vehicle (CSK) crewmen in a move aimed at strengthening operational readiness and enhancing troop mobility in ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations across the North-West.

The graduation ceremony, held at the 8 Division Training School, marked a significant milestone in the Division's efforts to build the capacity of frontline personnel by integrating highly trained drivers with advanced combat support vehicles to improve tactical manoeuvrability and the safe movement of troops.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.

Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, described CSK crewmen as indispensable to modern military operations, stressing that their expertise provides a crucial tactical advantage on the battlefield.

He noted that while many soldiers can operate weapons, successful combat operations depend on skilled crewmen capable of positioning gunners effectively for maximum operational advantage.

"Anybody can fire a gun, but effectively engaging the enemy requires a crewman who can position the gunner for maximum advantage," the GOC said.

Major General Koughna stressed the importance of comprehensive training, both in technical skills and professional mindset, before personnel are entrusted with sophisticated combat equipment.

He also underscored the value of on-the-job training, noting that experienced personnel within military formations can effectively transfer critical operational skills, thereby sustaining capacity development beyond conventional training institutions.

The GOC described specialised CSK training as a necessity rather than an option, given the demands of ongoing security operations in the North-West. He urged the newly graduated crewmen to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the course of their duties and announced a special monthly allowance to motivate them in their new roles.

Earlier, the Course Coordinator, Lieutenant Colonel Edidion Okonnah, said the training programme was initiated by the GOC as part of efforts to improve the capabilities of frontline troops, strengthen force protection and guarantee uninterrupted operational support across the 8 Division Area of Responsibility.

According to him, the 17 participants, drawn from different formations under the Division, underwent intensive theoretical and practical training covering military vehicle familiarisation, CSK components and capabilities, driving techniques, highway codes, vehicle inspection, tyre replacement procedures and combat recovery operations.

He added that the programme culminated in a practical driving exercise during which the graduates demonstrated their proficiency in vehicle handling, tactical manoeuvring and precision driving.

The ceremony featured a practical driving demonstration by the graduating crewmen, followed by a group photograph session to commemorate the successful completion of the pioneer course.