Sokoto, June 19, 2023 – The 8 Division Nigerian Army‘s Inter-Brigade Corporal and Below Competition 2023 has kicked off at the 26 Battalion Parade Ground in Giginya Barracks, Sokoto. This highly anticipated annual training event is an integral part of the Nigerian Army’s comprehensive training program and is held in different divisions across the country.
The opening ceremony was graced by Major General Godwin Micheal Mutkut, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Joint Taskforce North West Operation HADARIN DAJI. During his address, Major General Mutkut emphasized the key objectives of the competition. These objectives include enhancing the combat proficiency of non-commissioned officers (NCOs) with the rank of corporal and below, fostering leadership skills, evaluating organizational abilities, and testing endurance under challenging conditions. The GOC also highlighted the significance of physical and mental fitness in achieving operational success, citing the accomplishments of Operation HADARIN DAJI in the North West region.
Brigadier General Taye Ahmed, the Commander of 8 Division Garrison, expressed gratitude for being selected as the host of this prestigious competition. He urged the participating troops to approach the competition with utmost dedication, as it serves as a platform to prepare them for the upcoming Inter-Division competition later in the year.
The 8 Division Corporal and Below Competition will feature a series of challenging events designed to assess the skills and capabilities of the participants. These events include drill exercises, weapon handling and shooting, stripping and assembling of weapons, a 2.4km race, obstacle crossing, map reading, and combat swimming. The competition, which commenced on June 19, is scheduled to conclude on June 23.
Troops from 1 Brigade Zanfara, 17 Brigade Katsina, and 8 Division Garrison are actively participating in the competition, showcasing their prowess and determination. The atmosphere is filled with enthusiasm and camaraderie as soldiers compete against each other while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.
The 8 Division Inter-Brigade Corporal and Below Competition serves as a platform for troops to enhance their skills, showcase their capabilities, and foster unity among the participating units. This event not only reinforces the Nigerian Army’s commitment to continuous training but also provides an opportunity for soldiers to push their limits and excel in their roles as defenders of the nation.
