By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Nigerian Army has urged Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) to sustain the culture of training to enhance operational effectiveness and combat readiness.
The Chief of Army Standards and Evaluation, Maj.-Gen. Thompson Ugiagbe, made the call at the closing of the Guards Brigade Warrant Officers and SNCOs Competition 2026 in Abuja.
Ugiagbe described training as critical to developing leadership qualities and sustaining professionalism within the Nigerian Army.
He said the competition showcased discipline, physical endurance, tactical proficiency and teamwork among participating teams.
According to him, the exercise demonstrated the preparedness and commitment of Guards Brigade personnel toward discharging their constitutional responsibilities.
Ugiagbe said Warrant Officers and SNCOs remained the critical link between commissioned officers and soldiers in the army.
He noted that the competition provided opportunities for participants to sharpen military skills, improve physical fitness and strengthen esprit de corps.
The senior officer said the exercise aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy of building a professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force.
He urged participants to sustain the momentum generated during the competition and continue striving for excellence in their units and future assignments.
Ugiagbe congratulated the winning teams and encouraged others to view the exercise as an opportunity for learning and improvement.
He commended the Guards Brigade for its commitment to training and operational preparedness.
According to him, the brigade must continue to uphold high standards of professionalism, discipline and combat readiness.
Earlier, the Commander of Guards Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, said the competition was designed to enhance leadership capacity and operational readiness among senior soldiers.
Onasanya said the exercise commenced on June 15 with events including weapon handling, shooting, combat swimming, obstacle crossing and endurance activities.
He said participants demonstrated professionalism, resilience, discipline, teamwork and leadership throughout the three-day competition.
According to him, the objectives of improving combat readiness, physical endurance and esprit de corps were largely achieved.
He stressed that physical fitness and combat efficiency remained essential components of military effectiveness.
Onasanya commended the participating teams for their determination, discipline and sportsmanship during the exercise.
He also praised the organising committee, judges, umpires and support staff for ensuring a fair, safe and professional competition.
The commander expressed confidence that lessons learnt from the exercise would improve the operational effectiveness and leadership capabilities of participating units.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Guards Brigade’s four battalions and its Garrison competed with the 7 Guards Battalion emerging overall winner while 176 and 177 battalions came second and third respectively. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
