The Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army has commenced its 2026 Combat Proficiency Competition in Abuja, with participating personnel urged to maintain discipline, professionalism and strong operational standards.
The competition began at the Brigade’s Obstacle Course at Lungi Barracks, where 7 Guards Battalion took first place in the opening obstacle-crossing event. The 176 Battalion finished second, while the Guards Brigade Garrison came third.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Maj.-Gen. Ifeanyi Otu, Director of Policy, Planning and Research at the Defence Space Administration, emphasised the importance of continuous combat training in preparing troops for operational challenges.
Otu said effective military operations require personnel to combine physical fitness with tactical knowledge, sound judgment and proficiency in fundamental soldiering skills.
He noted that regular and realistic training helps troops respond more effectively to emerging security threats and adjust to changing operational conditions.
According to him, training also builds the confidence, knowledge and leadership abilities required by officers when operating in demanding environments.
Otu commended the Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, for sustaining the competition despite the Brigade’s numerous operational, ceremonial and administrative responsibilities.
He described the exercise as an indication of the Brigade’s commitment to combat preparedness, professionalism and operational excellence.
The competition features several activities designed to assess the participants’ military capabilities. These include physical fitness tests, map reading, combat swimming, obstacle crossing, skill-at-arms and shooting.
Otu encouraged the participants to compete with determination and discipline while maintaining safety and professional conduct. He stressed that the ultimate objective was not simply to emerge as winners but to improve the collective ability of personnel to perform effectively during future operations.
On his part, Onasanya described the competition as an important component of the Brigade’s training programme.
He said the exercise was intended to improve the physical condition, tactical abilities, decision-making skills and leadership capacity of officers while ensuring that high standards were passed down to soldiers.
The Commander added that the competition would promote teamwork and reinforce the professional military values expected of Nigerian Army personnel.
The events, he explained, include a 15-kilometre combat run in addition to map reading, combat swimming, obstacle crossing, skill-at-arms and shooting.
Onasanya urged participants to display integrity, determination, professionalism and sportsmanship throughout the exercise.
He also directed personnel involved in the competition to comply fully with established safety procedures.
The Brigade Commander expressed optimism that the experience and lessons gained from the competition would contribute to improved operational effectiveness among the participating troops.
