KADUNA, Nigeria (FN) — The Nigerian Defence Academy has issued a public advisory to residents of Afaka, Kauya, Tsamiya, and Mando in Kaduna State to avoid the NDA open range area from Tuesday through November 7 due to a scheduled live-fire training exercise.
In a statement released Monday by NDA Public Relations Officer Maj. Mohammed Maidawa, the academy announced it will conduct a Range Management Package Shooting Exercise for cadets of the 73 Regular Course (Army).
“All necessary safety measures have been put in place for the successful conduct of the exercise,” the statement read, assuring residents that the drills will be tightly controlled.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among residents, some of whom expressed concern over the proximity of the exercise to civilian areas. “We understand the need for training, but we worry about stray bullets and noise,” said a resident of Afaka, who asked not to be named.
Local community leaders have urged the NDA to provide clearer signage and physical barriers around the range to prevent accidental entry. “Many farmers and herders pass through that area daily. We need visible warnings, not just press statements,” said a youth leader from Kauya.
In response, Kaduna State officials said they are working with the NDA to ensure public safety and community awareness. “We’ve asked the academy to increase patrols and deploy marshals to guide residents during the exercise period,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Internal Security.
The NDA emphasized that the exercise is a routine part of cadet training and critical to preparing future officers. Past drills have occasionally raised concerns among nearby communities, but no major incidents have been reported in recent years.
Residents are advised to avoid the Afaka range entirely during the exercise window and to report any safety concerns to local authorities.
