Army issues alert as combat training begins in Cross River

The 82 Division, Nigerian Army will on Monday begin its Combat Company Orienteering Competition in the Ojoga axis of Cross River State.

Spokeman for the 82 Division, Abubakar Abdullahi, said the exercise will involve unusual movements of troops. He enjoined residents not to panic as a result.

The notice is contained in a statement released in Calabar on Friday.

Mr Abdullahi explained that the competition was part of the army’s training for the year, and was aimed at enhancing the operational readiness of troops under competitive atmosphere.

According to him, it is also targeted at leadership development of junior commanders.

“Consequently, residents of Ogoja, Okuku, Emaje, Akwuniyi, Bakwara, Abua cheche and Apakpa shibori in Ogoja and Yala Local Government Area of Cross River will witness increased movement of troops for the exercise.

“We therefore advise them not to panic but to remain calm and go about their normal activities peacefully.”

The army spokesman also disclosed that the competition would last for five days.

The 82 division covers the South-East and South-South region of the country with its headquarters in Enugu State.

(NAN)