Headquarters 1 Division Nigerian Army has successfully concluded its 2026 Inter-Brigade Warrant Officers (WOs) and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) Competition. The intensive five-day event, which commenced on June 15, 2026, at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Old Site Sports Complex, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna, drew to a robust close on Friday, June 19, 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 annual competition was specifically designed to sharpen leadership capacity, combat readiness, tactical proficiency, and esprit de corps among the participating formations.
The initiative directly aligns with the Nigerian Army’s strategic vision of maintaining a highly professional, operationally effective force capable of neutralizing contemporary security threats across the nation.
Brigadier General Timothy Opurum, the Chief of Staff 1 Division, declared the event closed on behalf of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Abubakar Sadique Muhammad Wase. In his remarks, Major General Wase commended the competitors for their exceptional discipline, physical endurance, and military professionalism throughout the rigorous exercise.
According to the GOC, the training modules were intentionally structured to evaluate the participants’ capacity to operate under extreme pressure, make sound tactical judgments amidst fatigue, and uphold the highest standards of command.
He noted that through grueling events—including obstacle crossing, advanced weapons handling, land navigation, combat swimming, and endurance runs—the soldiers unequivocally proved they possess the traits required to dominate today’s complex operational environment.
“The determination and unyielding commitment displayed by these competitors reflect the core operational values needed to control the battlefield and achieve decisive victory,” Major General Wase stated. While trophies were presented to the highest-scoring formations, he emphasized that every participant emerged a winner through the invaluable tactical insights and skills acquired during the five-day period.
He further congratulated the overall winning formation 1 Division Garrison for a well-deserved victory rooted in meticulous preparation and teamwork, while urging trailing brigades to leverage this experience to elevate their performance in future engagements.
The GOC expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for providing the critical resources and leadership that ensured the seamless execution of the exercise. He also gave special recognition to the Commander 1 Division Garrison, the Organizing Committee, umpires, and the medical and administrative support personnel for their dedication.
The colorful closing ceremony was well-attended by senior military officers, Heads of security agencies, staff officers from the Division Headquarters, and contingent commanders.
High points of the finale featured high-octane obstacle crossing demonstrations, the presentation of championship trophies, social refreshments, and a commemorative group photograph.
