The Nigerian Army has graduated 384 female soldiers after they successfully completed Exercise SHINING STAR 2026 at Giri, Abuja, as part of efforts to strengthen military readiness and improve personnel capabilities.

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The passing-out ceremony was held on Wednesday, October 28, at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Giri.

According to a statement shared on the Nigerian Army’s official X account on Thursday, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, was represented at the event by Major General Umar Gital Yusuf.

In his address, Yusuf commended the graduating soldiers for their discipline, dedication and commitment throughout the training exercise.

He encouraged them to sustain the values demonstrated during the programme and apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the discharge of their military responsibilities.

One of the major highlights of the ceremony was a series of practical military demonstrations, including obstacle-crossing exercises and weapons-handling drills.

The female soldiers also demonstrated their proficiency in handling firearms by dismantling and reassembling AK-47 rifles while blindfolded, showcasing their technical competence and familiarity with military equipment.

The exercise involved 384 female soldiers drawn from the 90 Regular Recruit Intake, alongside 14 male personnel from the Headquarters, Directorate of Army Physical Training, and 70 male personnel from the 167 Special Forces Battalion.

Eight personnel who distinguished themselves during the exercise received awards from the Acting Commander of the Nigerian Army Women Command in recognition of their outstanding performances.

Senior military officers, representatives of paramilitary agencies and other invited guests attended the ceremony.

Exercise SHINING STAR 2026 forms part of the Nigerian Army’s broader efforts to improve the operational capabilities of its personnel, strengthen combat preparedness and enhance its capacity to respond to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

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The graduation also highlights the contribution of female personnel to the military’s training and operational activities.