Army notifies Ibadan residents of live-fire drill at Fajuyi Cantonment

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Nigerian Army has alerted residents of Ojoo, Olorunda, and other communities surrounding Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment in Ibadan to expect the sound of gunfire during a scheduled shooting range exercise.

According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 2 Division, the exercise will take place from Wednesday, July 9 to Thursday, July 11, 2025, at the Major General O.F. Azinta Shooting Range.

The drill, described as a “Range Classification Exercise,” is a key component of the training curriculum for student soldiers currently undergoing the Basic Battle Course at the 2 Division Training School.

Lieutenant Colonel Okoye explained that the exercise aims to enhance the weapon-handling skills of the trainees and assess their combat readiness.

“The exercise is designed to refresh and improve the weapon-handling proficiency of the trainees,” he said. “It also evaluates the overall level of training and operational preparedness of the troops for combat and other assigned military duties.”

Residents were advised not to panic during the three-day event, as the sound of gunfire is part of the scheduled training activities.

The Army also urged farmers and hunters operating near the shooting range to avoid the area throughout the duration of the exercise to ensure safety.