The Nigerian Army has commenced the 2025 Lieutenant to Captain (Lt. to Capt.) Practical Promotion Examination in Kaduna, with a total of 208 officers participating. The week-long examination, organized by the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), is designed to assess the officers’ proficiency and readiness for higher responsibilities within the military hierarchy.
A Crucial Milestone in Military Careers
Speaking at the commencement of the examination, the President of the Examination Board and Commander of TRADOC, Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, emphasized the significance of the promotion examination. He described it as a critical milestone that evaluates officers in key aspects of military leadership, including command ability, tactical deployment, and physical fitness.
“The examination aims to evaluate the officers’ proficiency in various aspects of the military profession, including command ability, tactical employment, and physical fitness,” Aligbe stated.
He further charged the candidates to remain focused and confident, assuring them that the examination process would be conducted with the utmost fairness and transparency.
Exam Scope and Assessment Criteria
The candidates will be tested in various subject areas, including:
- Tactics and Low-Intensity Conflicts
- Map Reading
- Communication
- Skills at Arms Proficiency Test
- Driving and Maintenance
- Administration in the Field
- French Language
- Physical Fitness Test
To pass the examination, each candidate must score a minimum of 50% in all subjects and achieve an overall aggregate score of at least 60%. Maj.-Gen. Aligbe reminded the officers that, per the Army Headquarters policy, each candidate has a maximum of three attempts to pass the examination.
“I urge you all, particularly those on their second attempt, to put in your best to secure the minimum marks required to earn a pass. Be confident in yourselves and do not be discouraged,” he added.
Ensuring Fairness and Integrity
To maintain the credibility of the process, the Nigerian Army has instituted strict security measures, including video surveillance and invigilation by experienced officers. The examination board is committed to upholding a meticulous and impartial assessment of candidates’ performances, ensuring accuracy in recording marks.
“We shall be firm but fair to all of you and will not tolerate any actions that would compromise the integrity of this process,” Aligbe stressed.
Recognition for Top Performers
The best-performing officers in the examination will be rewarded with Certificates of Excellence, Letters of Commendation, and cash gifts as an incentive for their outstanding performance.
Additionally, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, encouraged the candidates to approach the examination with integrity and determination. He also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for approving Kaduna as the host division for this prestigious promotion examination.
“This examination is a critical milestone in your career progression in the Nigerian Army. I urge you to take it seriously and put in your best effort,” Saraso advised.
Commitment to Excellence
Maj.-Gen. Aligbe reassured the candidates that the board’s desire is to see them succeed, provided they have adequately prepared. He urged them to maintain a positive outlook and strive for excellence.
“There is no need for pessimism or contemplating failure if you have prepared well. Our desire is to see all of you pass this examination,” he concluded.
With the Nigerian Army’s commitment to excellence and transparency, this promotion examination marks a significant step in strengthening military leadership and ensuring that only the most capable officers progress in rank. The outcome of this examination will shape the careers of these officers, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigerian Army.
