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PORT HARCOURT – The Nigerian Army 6 Division Garrison has organised a 5-day Inter-brigage combat proficiency competition to sharpen officers skills in tackling the dynamic and ever evolving landscape of modern warfare,
The contest which kicked off on Monday features fitness race, map reading, combat swimming, shooting range and obstacle crossing exclusively for lieutenant and majors, drawn from 2 brigade, 16 brigade, 63 brigade and 6 Division Garrison.
Declaring the tournament open, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Eric Emekah, said it serves not only as a testament to the gallant ability of officers, but also as a critical reflection of officers operational readiness and effectiveness.
Major General Emekah, who was represented by Ishaya Makarfi Ibrahim, Division Training Officer, noted that proficiency remains a fundamental requirement for any soldier seeking to excel and survive in all terrains.
He emphasised that officers’ mastery of water skills, obstacle crossing, marksmanship skill, navigation and endurance run will directly contribute to the operational efficiency and combat readiness to operations.
Emekah stated, “It is with great pride and honor that I stand before you today on the occasion of 6 Division Combat Proficiency Competition.
“This event holds profound significance, not only as a testament to the gallant ability of our officers but also as a critical reflection of their operational readiness and effectiveness.
“In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare, the ability to adapt and overcome difficulties in the face of new ever-evolving threats has become increasingly crucial.
Speaking further, he said, “The journey to combat proficiency is a challenging one, marked by rigorous training, which encompasses both physical mentorship, and teamwork. Through your perseverance and teamwork, you have honed your skills and prepared to face any challenges.
“The skills you will showcase today are not merely recreational; they are the cornerstones of your survival and the success of your missions. Proficiency in combat is not just a desirable trait, but a fundamental requirement for any soldier who seeks to excel and survives in all terrains.
“Your mastery of water skills, obstacle crossing, marksmanship skill, navigation and endurance run will directly contribute to the operational efficiency and combat readiness of our operations.
“It is my profound belief that your performance in the following days would inspire your fellow comrades and also showcase the unmatched competence of this Division. With great pride and enthusiasm, I hereby declare the 6 Division Combat Proficiency Competition 2025 officially open! Let the competition begin, and may the best among the Bde emerge victorious,” he added.
On his part, the Commander 6 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, said the competition goes beyond winning, adding that it is about fostering esprit de corps among officers and preparedness to face any adversary.
Brigadier General Ahmed, who was represented by the Deputy Director Works Headquarters, 46 Engineering Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Obegu, asserted that the competition provides a vital opportunity to test officers’ mental and physical fitness in the face of evolving security threats.
“It is with great pride that I welcome you to the 6 Division Combat Proficiency Competition here in Port Harcourt Barracks venue for the 6 Division Combat Proficiency Competition 2025. Today marks a significant occasion as we gather to showcase the exceptional combat readiness and surviving skills of our officers.
“This competition is not merely an event; it is a vital opportunity to test your mental and physical fitness in the face of evolving security threats. I commend the organizing committee, instructors, coaches, umpires and participants for their outstanding preparations in making this happen.
Brigadier General Ahmed who emphasised participants’ sportsmanship and camaraderie, stated, “I expect all participants to embody good sportsmanship, teamwork, and fair play. This competition goes beyond winning; it is about fostering esprit de corps and preparedness to face any adversary.
“Finally, on behalf of the General Officer Commanding of the 6 Division Nigerian Army, I assertively welcome you all to this vital competition. Thank you, and God bless.”
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