Abuja: The Guards Brigade Nigerian Army has initiated its 2026 Combat Proficiency Competition, urging participating troops to maintain professionalism, discipline, and high operational standards. The event commenced at the Brigade’s Obstacle Course, Lungi Barracks, with the 7 Guards Battalion securing victory in the initial obstacle-crossing event, followed by the 176 Battalion and Guards Brigade Garrison in second and third place, respectively.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Maj.-Gen. Ifeanyi Otu, Director of Policy, Planning, and Research at the Defence Space Administration, emphasized the critical role of sustained combat training in enhancing operational readiness. Otu highlighted that military effectiveness is heavily reliant on leaders’ ability to exhibit sound tactical judgment, physical fitness, and mastery of basic soldiering skills. He emphasized the adage, ‘The more you train in peacetime, the less you bleed in war,’ underscoring the importance of realistic and continuous training.
Otu pointed out that well-trained troops are better equipped to adapt to changing operational realities and effectively respond to emerging threats. He praised Brig.-Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, the Commander of the Guards Brigade, for continuing the initiative despite the Brigade’s various commitments. The competition, according to Otu, reflects the Brigade’s dedication to professionalism, combat readiness, and operational excellence, featuring events designed to test military competencies such as physical fitness, map reading, and shooting.
Onasanya remarked that the competition is a crucial training activity aimed at enhancing officers’ physical fitness, tactical competence, and leadership qualities. Emphasizing professionalism and competence, he noted that the competition would strengthen teamwork and reinforce the warrior ethos expected of Nigerian Army officers. The events include a 15-kilometre combat run, map reading, combat swimming, and shooting, among others.
Participants are urged to demonstrate determination, integrity, and sportsmanship throughout the competition while adhering to safety requirements. Onasanya expressed confidence that the competition’s lessons would significantly boost the Brigade’s operational effectiveness.