The Garrison Command of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army on Monday flagged-off an Inter-Brigade combat proficiency competition for officers within the ranks of 2nd lieutenant and major, across 2 brigade, 16 brigade, 63 brigade and 6 Division Garrison.
Our Correspondent reports that the 5 days competition features; shooting range, obstacle crossing, map reading, combat swimming and fitness race for participating officers.
The General Officer Commanding, GOC, 6 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Eric Emekah, while declaring the competition open said the exercise is aimed at sharpening personnel skills, preparing them for the dynamic and ever evolving landscape of modern warfare.
The GOC, represented by the 6 Division Training Officer, Ishaya Makarfi Ibrahim said the event will not only serve as a testament to the gallant ability of officers, but also as a critical reflection of officers operational readiness and effectiveness.
He noted that proficiency remains a fundamental requirement for any soldier that seeks to excel and survive in all terrains.
He emphasised that officers’ mastery of water skills, obstacle crossing, marksmanship skill, navigation and endurance run will directly contribute to the operational efficiency and combat readiness to operations.
Emekah stated, “It is with great pride and honor that I stand before you today on the occasion of 6 Division Combat Proficiency Competition.
“This event holds profound significance, not only as a testament to the gallant ability of our officers but also as a critical reflection of their operational readiness and effectiveness.
“In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare, the ability to adapt and overcome difficulties in the face of new ever-evolving threats has become increasingly crucial.
Speaking further, he said, “The journey to combat proficiency is a challenging one, marked by rigorous training, which encompasses both physical mentorship, and teamwork. Through your perseverance and teamwork, you have honed your skills and prepared to face any challenges.
“The skills you will showcase today are not merely recreational; they are the cornerstones of your survival and the success of your missions. Proficiency in combat is not just a desirable trait, but a fundamental requirement for any soldier who seeks to excel and survives in all terrains.
“Your mastery of water skills, obstacle crossing, marksmanship skill, navigation and endurance run will directly contribute to the operational efficiency and combat readiness of our operations.
“It is my profound belief that your performance in the following days would inspire your fellow comrades and also showcase the unmatched competence of this Division. With great pride and enthusiasm, I hereby declare the 6 Division Combat Proficiency Competition 2025 officially open! Let the competition begin, and may the best among the them emerge victorious,” he added.
Earlier in his address, the Commander, 6 Division Garrison/Sector 3 Joint Task Force, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, said the competition goes beyond winning, adding that it is about fostering esprit de corps among officers and preparedness to face any adversary.
Ahmed, represented by the Deputy Director Works Headquarters, 46 Engineering Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Obegu, asserted that the competition provides a vital opportunity to test officers mental and physical fitness in the face of evolving security threats.
He said, “It is with great pride that I welcome you to the 6 Division Combat Proficiency Competition here in Port Harcourt Barracks venue for the 6 Division Combat Proficiency Competition 2025. Today marks a significant occasion as we gather to showcase the exceptional combat readiness and surviving skills of our officers.
“This competition is not merely an event; it is a vital opportunity to test your mental and physical fitness in the face of evolving security threats. I commend the organizing committee, instructors, coaches, umpires and participants for their outstanding preparations in making this happen.
Brigadier General Ahmed who emphasised participants’ sportsmanship and camaraderie, stated, “I expect all participants to embody good sportsmanship, teamwork, and fair play. This competition goes beyond winning; it is about fostering esprit de corps and preparedness to face any adversary.
“Finally, on behalf of the General Officer Commanding of the 6 Division Nigerian Army, I assertively welcome you all to this vital competition. Thank you, and God bless.”
