By MOHAMMED TIJJANI

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has advised residents of Afaka, Kauya and Mando communities in Kaduna State, to stay clear of ?Open Range?, during its upcoming shooting exercise.

The NDA Public Relations Officer (PRO), Maj. Mohammed Maidawa, gave the advice in a statement on Tuesday in Kaduna.

According to him, the exercise is expected to take place between Wednesday and Friday.

He explained that the shooting was part of the Range Classification Exercise for cadets of the Short Service Course 48 Army.

?The NDA wishes to inform and caution all inhabitants of Afaka, Kauya and Mando, particularly pedestrians and cattle rearers, about the shooting exercise that will occur at the NDA Open Range.

?The exercise will involve live firing of arms and is essential for the training and development of our cadets, aimed at enhancing their marksmanship skills.

?The NDA takes safety seriously and so barriers and warning signs will be placed around the range areas to indicate restricted zones.

?It is crucial that all local residents strictly adhere to these warnings.

?We kindly urge all herders, as well as pedestrians to stay clear of the NDA Open Range during the duration of the shooting exercise,? he said.

Maidawa also said that the area would be off-limits for the safety of residents and that of the training personnel.

He added that the NDA was committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents in the surrounding communities.

?We therefore ask community members to cooperate fully, by keeping clear of the designated area throughout the duration of the exercise.

?This cooperation is mutually beneficial in ensuring the safety of our local communities and the effective training of our military personnel.

?We appreciate your understanding and collaboration, as we conduct this important training programme,? he further said. (NAN)