Army steps up combat readiness as 8 division launches military competition in sokoto

By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO;- The Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to strengthen troop readiness and operational efficiency as the 8 Division, Sokoto, on Monday kicked off the 2026 Inter-Brigade Corporals and Below Competition, a major training exercise designed to sharpen the physical fitness, discipline, and combat preparedness of soldiers.

Declaring the week long competition open, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Maj.-Gen. Bemgba Koughna, said the initiative reflects the Army’s determination to maintain a highly professional and battle ready force capable of responding effectively to the nation’s evolving security challenges.

Represented by the Commander, 48 Engineering Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Ifenna Agba, the GOC described rigorous training as the cornerstone of military professionalism and operational excellence.

“Training remains the bedrock of the military profession and the cradle upon which regimentation and discipline are built. Competitions such as this are organised to assess the physical fitness, endurance, and combat readiness of our troops,” he said.

According to him, the exercise will provide a critical platform for soldiers to test their limits, improve their stamina, and sharpen tactical skills necessary for effective field operations.

Koughna noted that the volatile security environment across parts of the country continues to demand highly disciplined and physically resilient troops capable of confronting emerging threats.

He stressed that combating criminal activities within the Division’s area of responsibility requires well-trained, motivated, and combat-ready personnel.

“To effectively counter the activities of criminal elements, physically fit and operationally prepared troops are indispensable,” he added.

The GOC explained that the competition is also in line with the directive of Army Headquarters to intensify training programmes across formations as part of efforts to strengthen operational capacity.

He said the exercise aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy of building a professional, adaptable, and resilient Nigerian Army capable of meeting contemporary security demands.

Koughna urged all participating formations to observe the rules of the competition and conduct themselves with discipline and professionalism.

He also called on umpires and judges to uphold fairness and impartiality throughout the event

The GOC commended the host formation, Headquarters 8 Division Garrison, for successfully organising the competition within a short timeframe.

He further appreciated the Sokoto State Government, other security agencies, and members of the public for their continued cooperation and support to the military in safeguarding lives and property.

In his remarks, the Commander, 8 Division Garrison, Brig.-Gen. Abdulmalik Muhammad, described the competition as a strategic platform for strengthening junior leadership and operational competence among corporals and soldiers.

He said the exercise goes beyond routine sporting activities, noting that it is designed to enhance discipline, endurance, tactical awareness, and professional development among troops.

“This competition is not merely a contest of skills; it is a deliberate effort to reinforce discipline, resilience, and tactical proficiency among our personnel,” Muhammad said.

He disclosed that activities scheduled for the event include map reading, swimming, drill exercises, endurance races, weapon handling, and other tactical drills aimed at sharpening soldiers’ operational capabilities.

Muhammad added that the competition would help build a more cohesive, robust, and combat-ready junior cadre within the Nigerian Army while promoting esprit de corps, healthy rivalry, and stronger collaboration among formations.

He commended the GOC for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to training and operational excellence.

The commander also urged participants to compete with discipline, sportsmanship, and determination while embracing the opportunity to learn from one another in the spirit of professionalism and unity.