The Nigerian Army has urged residents of Enugu State to remain calm and avoid panic in light of heavy troop movement and gunfire that will occur between March 17 and March 20, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 82 Division, Lt.-Col. Jonah Unuakhalu, in a statement released on Thursday.
The movement of troops and the sound of gunshots are part of a week-long range classification exercise set to take place at the Army Training Area in Udi Local Government Area, just outside Enugu metropolis. The exercise is designed to sharpen the shooting skills of officers and soldiers and to assess the readiness of weapons that have not been previously deployed in operations.
Lt.-Col. Unuakhalu reassured residents, particularly those in Udi LGA, including communities such as Ogbede, Ukehe, Umoka, Affa, Ochima, and Onyohor, that there was no cause for concern during this period. He emphasized that the exercise would involve live ammunition, and urged the public to stay clear of the designated training areas.
“Please be assured that there is no need for alarm when witnessing the movement of troops or hearing gunshots,” Unuakhalu said, adding that the public’s cooperation is appreciated as the exercise proceeds. He also expressed the warmest regards from the General Officer Commanding the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army.
The Army concluded the statement by emphasizing safety, urging locals to avoid the training zones during the period to ensure their safety while the exercise is ongoing.
