By correspondent in Lokoja.
The 2 Division Inter-Brigade Corporal and Below Competition 2025 has officially commenced in Lokoja, Kogi State on Monday ,showcasing the Nigerian Army’s commitment to fostering professionalism, team spirit, and operational readiness.
Our correspondent reports that the weeklong event, hosted by Headquarters 12 Brigade Nigerian Army at Chari Maigumeri Barracks, features formations drawn across the division and focuses on junior personnel—corporals and below.
In his address of welcome, the Commander, 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Sidi, said the competition aimed to enhance leadership and teamwork among lower-ranked soldiers, preparing them for more demanding responsibilities.
He explained that the five-day competition includes a variety of exercises such as drill, skill at arms, map reading, combat swimming, endurance training, obstacle crossing, and shooting, all geared towards developing core military competencies.
Gen. Sidi revealed that six units from 2 Division are participating and stressed the inclusion of more female soldiers, this year, to promote diversity and inclusiveness within the Army.
“Our training efforts reflect the belief that the only way to bleed less in wartime is to sweat more in peacetime,” he said, adding that training continues to receive strong support under the current Army leadership,”he said.
The special guest of honour at the occasion,Rear Admiral Mohammed Yakubu, Commander, Command Naval Drafting, who declared the event open, described it as a milestone in military collaboration and professionalism within the Armed Forces.
Admiral Yakubu praised the leadership of 12 Brigade for their dedication to grassroots military development, noting the improved security situation in Kogi as evidence of their effectiveness.
“This competition not only tests physical and tactical abilities but also reflects the Army’s values—courage, integrity, and unity,” he said, urging participants to perform with pride and uphold the honour of their brigades.
Participating units include 4 Brigade Benin, 12 Brigade Lokoja, 22 Armoured Brigade Ilorin, 32 Artillery Brigade Akure, 42 Engineer Brigade, Ede, and 2 Division Garrison, Ibadan.
Dignitaries at the event include the Commander NNS Lugard, Lokoja,Commodore Tamuno Senibo, as well as representatives from the DSS, Nigeria Police, NSCDC, FRSC, Immigration, Correctional Service, and Fire Service.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
