Kaduna: The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 1 Division, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso says the Nigerian Army will continue to prioritise training and excellence in the service.
Saraso, also the Commander of Sector 1 Operation Fansan Yanma, stated this at the closing of the division’s Inter-Brigade Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Competition 2025 on Friday in Kaduna.
The week-long competition featured weapons handling, obstacle crossing, range classification, combat swimming and map reading. The 150 athletes who participated in the event were drawn from 1 Division Garrison, Kaduna, 3 Brigade, Kano and 31 Brigade, Minna, respectively
He hinted that the Nigerian Army had scheduled more year-round competitions, including the Combat Orienteering and Combat Proficiency competitions.
Saraso said the formations had made commendable efforts to prepare their various teams for the competition.
“I acknowledge the stamina and endurance displayed by the various groups in obstacle crossing and combat swimming.
“You swam in military gear, that is, with your boots, uniform, rifles and other kits.
“You also showed excellent skills in weapons handling and Map Reading; nevertheless, there is room for improvement.
” As the Nigerian Army continues to forge ahead, training will remain the best welfare soldiers can have, “he said.
According to him, this year’s competition is a reaffirmation of the division’s premium on effective training.
Saraso added, “The Division will continue to implement its training schedules in line with AHQ Training Directives.
“Accordingly, new skills will continue to be acquired, areas of observed weaknesses will be strengthened, and those areas where personnel are strong will be consolidated.
“For the formations that excelled in the various events and the overall champion during this competition, I say congratulations and keep it up.
“For the formations that have not triumphed, you still have the chance of showcasing your abilities in other competitions, provided that you start training early.
“We still have the Nigerian Army Combat Orienteering Competition scheduled for July this year and the Combat Proficiency Competition, which is also scheduled for August this year.”
Saraso commended all the participants, observers, umpires and judges for a well-done job.
He also appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lt .-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for providing the resources to host the competition.
The 3 Brigade Kano emerged as the overall competition winner, the 31 Artillery Brigade came second, and the 1 Division Garrison came third.