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.
The 5-day competition features shooting range, obstacle crossing, map reading, combat swimming and fitness race for participating officers.
Eric Emekah, a major-general and general officer commanding 6 Division, while declaring the competition open, said the exercise was aimed at sharpening personnel skills, preparing them for the dynamic and ever evolving landscape of modern warfare.
The GOC, represented by Ishaya Makarfi Ibrahim, Training Officer, 6 Division, said the event would 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 remained a fundamental requirement for any soldier that seeks to excel and survive in all terrains.
Emekah 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.
He said: “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.
“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.”
Sani Ahmed, Brigadier General and Commander, 6 Division Garrison/Sector 3 Joint Task Force, earlier in his address, 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 Thomas Obegu, Lieutenant Colonel and Deputy Director Works Headquarters, 46 Engineering Brigade, said 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 organising committee, instructors, coaches, umpires and participants for their outstanding preparations in making this happen.”
Ahmed, who emphasised participants’ sportsmanship and camaraderie, further said: “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.”
