Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
The Jigawa State Police Command has appealed to residents of Tsohon Gari and surrounding communities in Dutse, the state capital, to remain calm following a scheduled shooting exercise at the Command’s official firing range.
According to the police, the exercise is a routine firearms proficiency drill designed to improve the operational readiness and marksmanship of officers. Authorities emphasized that the training is part of standard policing procedures and should not be mistaken for a security emergency.
The announcement came amid concerns that the sound of repeated gunfire during the exercise could cause unnecessary panic among residents unfamiliar with the planned activity.
Routine Exercise to Improve Operational Readiness
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), the Jigawa State Police Command disclosed that the shooting drill would take place at the CP AT Abdullahi Shooting Range located within Tsohon Gari.
The Command explained that regular firearms training is essential to maintaining professionalism and ensuring that officers remain competent in the safe handling and effective use of service weapons.
Police authorities noted that such exercises form part of continuous capacity-building programmes aimed at strengthening the operational efficiency of personnel in responding to security challenges across the state.
According to the Command, officers participating in the drill will undergo practical shooting sessions under strict supervision while adhering to established safety protocols.
Residents Advised Not to Panic
Recognising that the sound of gunfire could raise alarm, the police urged members of the public, particularly residents living close to the shooting range, not to panic during the exercise.
The Command assured the public that the activity was fully controlled, professionally supervised, and posed no danger to surrounding communities.
Residents were encouraged to continue their normal daily activities while avoiding unnecessary speculation or the circulation of misleading information on social media.
The police stressed that prior public notification was intended to prevent fear and ensure transparency regarding official security activities.
Commitment to Public Safety
The Jigawa State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property throughout the state.
Officials stated that continuous training remains one of the most effective ways to prepare officers for emergencies, counter-crime operations, and other law enforcement responsibilities.
The Command explained that maintaining high standards of firearms proficiency is critical to ensuring officers respond appropriately during security incidents while minimising risks to civilians.
Police leadership also reiterated that all exercises are conducted in accordance with national policing guidelines and international best practices governing the use of firearms by law enforcement personnel.
Importance of Regular Firearms Training
Security experts have consistently maintained that routine firearms training plays a vital role in modern policing.
Such exercises help officers:
- Improve accuracy and weapon handling.
- Strengthen decision-making under pressure.
- Reinforce firearm safety procedures.
- Build confidence during operational deployments.
- Reduce the likelihood of accidental discharge or misuse of weapons.
Continuous retraining has become increasingly important as police agencies worldwide seek to improve professionalism, accountability, and public confidence.
Public Cooperation Encouraged
The police appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies by remaining calm throughout the exercise and reporting any genuine security concerns through official communication channels.
Authorities warned against spreading unverified rumours capable of causing unnecessary panic, noting that misinformation during routine security activities can undermine public confidence and create avoidable anxiety.
The Command also thanked members of the public for their continued support in promoting peace and security across Jigawa State.
Police officials reaffirmed that community partnership remains an essential component of effective policing, urging citizens to continue providing useful information that can assist law enforcement in preventing crime.
Strengthening Community Trust
The notification of the planned shooting drill reflects growing efforts by security agencies to maintain transparency with the public.
Rather than allowing residents to be surprised by the sound of gunfire, the police opted to inform communities beforehand, a practice increasingly adopted by security institutions to strengthen public trust and prevent misinformation.
Observers say such proactive communication demonstrates the importance of maintaining open channels between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
By informing residents ahead of time, the police hope to reduce unnecessary emergency calls and ensure that genuine security incidents receive prompt attention.
Ongoing Security Efforts
The Jigawa State Police Command continues to implement measures aimed at improving public safety through regular training, intelligence-led policing, community engagement, and collaboration with other security agencies.
Authorities reaffirmed that operational preparedness remains central to their mission of protecting lives and maintaining law and order across the state.
The Command encouraged residents to remain vigilant while supporting lawful security operations designed to enhance peace and stability.
As the scheduled shooting exercise proceeds under controlled conditions at the CP AT Abdullahi Shooting Range, police have assured residents that there is no cause for alarm, reiterating that the activity is purely a routine training exercise intended to improve the competence and readiness of officers serving the people of Jigawa State.
Sources: Jigawa State Police Command; Nigeria Police Force.
