the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has charged Junior commanders of the Division to take back the spirit of the 8 Division Inter Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition 2026 and transform it into their men to maintain peak combat readiness, professional competence and physical fitness,following the successful conclusion of Competition.
The rigorous military exercise competition hosted by the 8 Division Garrison at the Giginya Military Cantonment in Sokoto, saw the 8 Division Garrison emerge as the overall winner, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army secured the second position, while 17 Brigade finished as the runner-up.
The competition brought together multiple formations under the 8 Division to evaluate the operational capabilities of junior commanders. Participating officers were rigorously tested on their combat skills, physical endurance, technical competence, and ability to execute tasks effectively under pressure. Key highlights of the exercise included a 10km combat run, a 4x400m combat relay race, range weapon handling, map reading, obstacle crossing, and various tactical combat drills.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the closing ceremony, Major General Koughna highlighted the significance of the first pillar of the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, which centers on combat readiness. He emphasized that the soldier, as an individual, is the first weapon of war, and the primary requirement of any soldier is to be “fit to fight.” He further noted that effectively leading men fundamentally requires junior commanders to maintain peak physical and mental fitness.
The GOC charged the officers to internalize the experiences gained during the competition. He directed them to carry these lessons back to their respective units and translate them into improved performance during both routine and operational duties. Furthermore, he commended all participating formations for their competitive spirit and outstanding display of professionalism.
The successful execution of the 2026 Combat Proficiency Competition reaffirms the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to realistic training, personnel welfare, and sustained operational readiness across all its formations.
