The Nigerian Army on Tuesday in Abuja commenced the 2023 Inter-Formation Combat Obstacle Crossing Competition for troops drawn from various divisions, formations and units.

The competition, which is a real-time battlefield simulation exercise and activities, has 320 troops, 40 each from a total of seven Army Divisions and the Army Headquarters Garrison, participating.

Addressing the competing troops, the Chief of Training (Army), Maj.-Gen. Sani Mohammed, said it was a training-oriented and purpose-driven competition, specifically designed to improve troops’ combat efficiency, physical fitness and Esprit de Corps.

Mr Mohammed explained that it was to upgrade troops’ capacity to tackle recent dynamics and security threats in the country and allow junior commanders to use good initiatives to upscale their capability in leadership, command and control.

“Obstacles are integral part of any military campaign planning process which needs to be carefully understood and decisively handled in order to achieve the desired end state.

“You will continue to come across different types of obstacles in your various operations. You must therefore all strive to portray good individual qualities and camaraderie while you compete, as well as abide by all laid down rules and regulations.

“Various technical details have been put in place that will ensure that everybody competes and abides by the regulations.”

The chief of training, therefore, implored the participants to imbibe the spirit of fairness and sportsmanship throughout the competition and seize the opportunity to bring out their best.

He thanked the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for the provision of necessary resources for the competition.

Earlier, the Commander AHQ Garrison, Maj.-Gen. Koko Isoni, said the concept of the exercise was to test the ability of a body of troops to cross a mix of obstacles within the shortest time in a competitive atmosphere.

Mr Isoni added that it was also to improve troops’ proficiency, physical fitness, leadership traits, and initiatives, as well as promote esprit de corps.

“The competition is also intended to prepare troops for battles in view of the current security challenges in the country.

“While welcoming you all to Abuja, I would like to assure you of our improved security situation in Army Headquarters Garrison area of responsibility.

“This is as a result of concerted efforts by the Garrison and other sister services and security agencies, and we have embarked on robust operations under the guidance of the Chief of Army Staff,” he said.

He assured the participants that necessary measures for a huge free competition had been put in place by the technical and local organising committees.

Mr Isoni urged the participants and technical officials to take the competition seriously, abide by laid down rules, and utilise the opportunity to be worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Army.

(NAN)