Army announces operation ‘Thunder Strike’ exercise in Bauchi

The Nigerian Army Armour School, Bauchi, has announced plans to conduct a military training exercise, codenamed Exercise Thunder Strike 2026, as part of efforts to improve the operational readiness of its personnel.

In a statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Major Adekunle Adeyemi, the Army said a firepower demonstration for cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy will hold on June 25, 2026, at the Victor Kure Armour Range along the Bauchi–Jos Road.

The statement said the main training exercise will take place from June 29 to July 2, 2026, in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State and other selected locations.

Residents were advised to expect increased movement of troops, armoured vehicles, military equipment and low-flying aircraft during the period.

According to the Army, activities on June 25 will be held around Zaranda Hill and Geji Village in Bauchi Local Government Area, while the field exercise will cover Bara in Gombe State; Bashar and Dengi in Plateau State; Karim and Muri in Taraba State; as well as Alkaleri and neighbouring communities in Bauchi State.

The Army urged residents, particularly farmers and herders, not to panic at the sound of gunfire, assuring that all necessary safety measures have been put in place.

It also advised members of the public to stay away from designated exercise areas throughout the training period.

The exercise will end on July 2 with a live firepower display involving Armoured Fighting Vehicles.

The Army appealed to media organisations to help create public awareness and encourage cooperation from residents during the exercise.