By Stephen Adeleye
In a resounding display of military skill and discipline, the 22 Armoured Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Ilorin, has emerged as the overall winner of the 2 Division Inter-Brigade Corporal and Below Competition, held at the 12 Brigade Headquarters in Charimaigumeri Barracks, Lokoja.
The five-day competition, which commenced on Monday, April 7, brought together six brigades under the 2 Division: 4 Brigade (Benin), 12 Brigade (Lokoja), 22 Armoured Brigade (Ilorin), 32 Artillery Brigade (Akure), 42 Engineer Brigade (Ede), and the 2 Division Garrison (Ibadan).
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the event was designed to enhance combat proficiency, leadership, and teamwork among junior-ranking soldiers.
At the closing ceremony on Friday, Chief Judge of the competition, Col. Adeniyi Adebayo, announced the final results. 22 Brigade emerged in first place with 430 points, followed by 12 Brigade with 400 points, while 42 Engineer Brigade secured third place with 380 points.
The 32 Brigade placed fourth with 360 points, 4 Brigade came fifth with 350 points, and 2 Division Garrison finished sixth with 330 points, earning the Wooden Spoon.
Maj.-Gen. Obinna Onubogu, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, and Special Guest of Honour, commended all participants for their passion, discipline, resilience, and professionalism.
“This impressive showing is undoubtedly the result of hard work, discipline, and dedicated preparation at all levels,” he said. “Purposeful training, which is the foundation of military professionalism, was clearly the catalyst for what we’ve witnessed during this competition.”
He emphasized the importance of continuous training to enhance troops’ capabilities in responding to security challenges within the division’s Area of Responsibility (AOR).
“This competition is both timely and essential for improving combat readiness. We must not rest on our laurels, but begin preparing for future competitions,” he urged.
The GOC reaffirmed the division’s commitment to ongoing training and adopting new tactics and procedures in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) Command Philosophy:
“To consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards bequeathing a well-motivated and combat-ready force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.”
He also pledged to strengthen identified areas of weakness while building on existing strengths, and expressed gratitude to the COAS, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his continued support.
“I also appreciate the Chief Judge and his team for a job well done, as well as the 12 Brigade and the organizers for the successful execution of this year’s competition. To our invited guests, your presence and support are deeply appreciated,” Onubogu concluded.
Earlier in his remarks, Commander of 12 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Kasim Sidi, praised the competition for preparing junior soldiers for more demanding responsibilities.
He commended the troops for their courage, teamwork, and professionalism, saying, “This event was not just about trophies—it was about sharpening our skills, strengthening our unity, and reinforcing the culture of excellence that defines the Nigerian Army.”
He added, “Every soldier, regardless of rank, plays a critical role in operational success. You pushed through challenges and showed the power of teamwork and perseverance. Carry that spirit forward—it is the foundation of greatness.”
Brig.-Gen. Sidi also lauded the GOC for his leadership, reiterating that the competition has further advanced the COAS Command Philosophy.
“This event has brought us one step closer to building a force that is not only combat-ready but also deeply rooted in discipline and professionalism. As we return to our respective units, remember: ‘Strength does not come from winning, your struggles develop your strength.’ You have all grown stronger here.”
The closing ceremony was attended by heads of sister security agencies, including Commodore Tamuno Senibo (Commander, NNS Lugard), the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Commissioner of Police, and representatives from the NSCDC, FRSC, Immigration, Correctional Service, and Fire Service, among others.