By Leonard Okachie
The 82 Division of the Nigerian Army on Monday, began the 2024 Inter Brigade Warrant Officers (WOs) and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers’ (SNCOs) competition in Abia.
The competition, hosted by the 14 Brigade, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Barracks, Ohafia, is intended to improve leadership qualities and organisational ability among the soldiers.
The competition is also intended to prepare troops for more challenging responsibilities.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the five-day event will feature weapons handling, fitness test, shooting, half cross country, map reading/navigation, obstacle crossing and drill.
Declaring the competition open, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division, Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, urged the participants to take the competition serious, as well as ensure true spirit of sportsmanship and comradeship.
Dada, who was represented by the Division Training Officer, Brig.-Gen. OO Ejere, said the Army would continue to train and retrain soldiers in order not to be found wanting on the day of reckoning.
He said the programme was in compliance with Army Headquarters Training Directive for the Year 2024 and in furtherance of 82 Division training goals.
The GOC said the 2024 competition provided room for more participation by female soldiers.
He said the participating teams included 13 Brigade, Calabar; 14 Brigade, Ohafia; 34 Artillery Brigade, Owerri; 44 Engineers Brigade, Enugu and 82 Division Garrison, Enugu.
In a welcome remark, the Commander, 14 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Olusola Diya, enjoined participants and officials
to put in their bests to make the competition a success.
He said all venues earmarked for the various events to be competed in had been properly prepared to meet the standards.
“As participants, we should not dwell in the winning or losing aspect of the competition, rather, participate to gain more experience and attain a better sense of sportsmanship.
“It will eventually help you carry out your military responsibilities effectively as leaders.
“It is hoped that all participants will put in their best to be good ambassadors of their respective formations,” Diya said.(NAN)
