Headquarters 1 Division Nigerian Army has officially commenced its 2026 Inter-Brigade Warrant Officers (WOs) and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) Competition. The five-day event which commenced on 15 June 2026 at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Old Site Sports Complex, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna will run until 19 June 2026.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Ajemasu Yake Jingina acting deputy director army public relations 1 division Nigerian army/sector 1 operation fansar yamma said the competition aims to sharpen leadership, tactical proficiency, and operational effectiveness. It directly supports the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to counter contemporary and asymmetric security challenges across the region.
Participants will compete in rigorous events designed to test physical endurance, mental grit, and field competence:
Weapon Handling: Precision drilling and live-fire range classification.
Physical Fitness: High-intensity obstacle course navigation.
Combat Swimming: Essential water survival and tactical crossing skills. Land Navigation: Map reading, orientation, and point-to-point day/night navigation.Combat Walk: Heavy-load endurance marching under operational conditions.
Opening the event, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase—General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and Commander Sector 1, Operation FANSAN YAMMA—emphasised that the participating ranks bracket form the backbone of the Army’s frontline power.
“This competition directly aligns with the Third Pillar of the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, which focuses on operational readiness,” Major General Wase stated. He urged the troops to approach each task with discipline and sportsmanship, noting that the skills honed during the week are vital for survival and victory in active combat zones.
Earlier, Brigadier General Auwal Abdullahi, Commander of the 1 Division Garrison, delivered the welcome address. He noted that the exercise fosters healthy rivalry and teamwork, serving as a clear testament to the military’s commitment to maintaining a highly responsive and professional force.
The opening ceremony brought together senior military leadership, staff officers from the Division Headquarters, and heads of security agencies. Key highlights featured: A precision weapon-handling demonstration by troops. Presentation of official souvenirs to dignitaries
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