NDA Ex Camp Highland Reaches Crescendo With Battle Inoculation and Firepower Demonstration

NDA Ex Camp Highland Reaches Crescendo With Battle Inoculation and Firepower Demonstration

Activities for the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Exercise CAMP HIGHLAND for Army cadets of the 72 Regular Course and Short Service Course 48 reached a highest climax in Kachia on Friday, 15 August 2025, with the much-anticipated Battle Inoculation and Firepower Demonstration at the Nigerian Army Military Training Area Table Hill, Kachia.

The Battle Inoculation, punctuated by the thunder of live gunfire and the blast of military-grade explosives, recreated the chaos of a battlefield and marked the culmination of weeks of rigorous training. The exercise tested cadets on leadership, tactical knowledge, and troop command in simulated military operations, preparing them for their commissioning into the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The event unfolded in 4 key phases: The Assault Narrative, Ground Description, Firepower Demonstration, and Final Assault. In the climactic finale, cadets stormed Table Top Hill under intense arms fire and artillery support to capture their objective. Although air assets were scheduled to participate, adverse weather conditions prevented their deployment – underscoring the unpredictability of real-world operations. However, the air support came after weather conditions allowed it, which necessitated adjustment in the scenario which in effect is a realism as conditions are not always favourable

Speaking at the event, the Chief Host and Commandant NDA, Major General Abdul Khalifa Ibrahim OFR, described the exercise as a vital transition point for cadets into junior leadership roles. He commended their performance and expressed confidence in their readiness for military service, while also applauding the contributions of Principal Staff Officers, instructors, and supporting formations, including the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Nigerian Army Armour School,Nigerian Army School of Artillery as well as 1 and 3 Divisions of the Nigerian Army.

The Special Guest of Honour, Major General Obinna Chukwudi Ajunwa, Commander Armoured Corps, praised the cadets’ discipline, teamwork, and resilience. He highlighted that the Battle Inoculation provided a realistic taste of combat pressures, both physical and psychological, without the destruction of actual warfare. He urged cadets to remain physically fit, mentally alert, and committed to self-improvement, noting that military service is a “long-endurance race” that demands courage and discipline.

The live-fire event capped a rigorous three-week programme, which began in late July with phases conducted in Plateau and Kaduna States. Prior to the finale, cadets participated in map reading, tactical manoeuvres, leadership training, mountain climbing, and watermanship exercises. Safety remained paramount, with strict range controls and medical teams on standby throughout.

The day also featured a novelty shooting display by dignitaries, including serving and retired senior military officers, traditional rulers, Heads of Ministries Departments and Agencies, invited guests, NDA staff, and members of the National Youth Service Corps. The entire exercise was capped with an exciting Commandant’s Battle Inoculation luncheon at the Nigerian Army Training Area Base Camp, Kachia where guests were also presented with commemorative souvenirs.

In closing, the Director of Military Training, Brigadier General T Ahmed, delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all individuals and units whose efforts ensured the success of Exercise CAMP HIGHLAND 2025.

The event was attended by senior military officers including, Corps Commanders, representatives of General Officers Commanding and Air Officers Commanding , Commandants of Tri Service and other military institutions, Traditional rulers among others.