The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Adebayo Abdulrahman Babalola, has commended troops for their professionalism and resilience during the 2026 81 Division Inter-Brigade Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Combat Proficiency Competition.
The News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN) reports that the competition, which was held at Battalion Rear, Owode-Yewa, Ogun, featured weapon handling, shooting, combat swimming, map reading, navigation, physical fitness tests, and obstacle crossing.
The participating formations were 9 Brigade, Ikeja; 35 Artillery Brigade, Abeokuta; 45 Engineer Brigade; and 81 Division Garrison, Obalende.
At the end, 45 Engineer Brigade emerged overall champion.
35 Artillery Brigade came second, while 9 Brigade placed third. 81 Division Garrison finished in fourth position.
Represented by the Division Training Officer, Brig.-Gen. HM Bello, the GOC commended officials and umpires.
He said their professionalism reflected strong leadership within participating formations.
“The high standards displayed throughout the exercise reflect the quality of leadership in these formations,” he said.
Babalola also praised participants for outstanding performance.
He said the competition reinforced the role of Warrant Officers and Senior Non Commissioned Officers in operational effectiveness.
According to him, they remain critical to sustaining combat readiness in the Nigerian Army.
He congratulated the winners and urged them to sustain the standards achieved.
Delivering a vote of thanks, the Commander 81 Division Garrison, Brig.-Gen. AI Getso, described the event as successful.
Getso said it demonstrated discipline, teamwork, resilience and professionalism.
“These remain hallmarks of the Nigerian Army,” he said.
He thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, through the GOC, for support.
He also appreciated all personnel who contributed to the success of the exercise.
The closing ceremony was attended by government officials, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other distinguished guests.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of trophies, prizes, and awards to the winning formations.(NAN)
