By Usman Aliyu and Osayi Aghahowa
The 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Benin, have emerged overall winner of the 2026 2 Division Inter-Brigade Corporals and Below Competition.
The contest ended in Benin on Thursday with a strong push to sharpen combat readiness amid Nigeria’s security challenges.
The four-day competition held at the Ekenwa Cantonment, Benin, drew six formations from across the division, with soldiers tested in drills, obstacle crossing, weapon handling and shooting as well as combat swimming among others.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 12 Brigade, Lokoja, finished second, while 2 Division Garrison, Ibadan, emerged third, and 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, fourth position.
Closing the event, the Special Guest of Honour and Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport, Maj.-Gen. Adebayo Adegbite, said the competition had achieved its core objective of preparing junior soldiers for real-world operations.
“Judging from the zeal and performance of the participating formations, I am satisfied that the essence of this competition has been largely achieved,” he said.
Adegbite noted that the exercise strengthened combat proficiency, leadership capacity and teamwork among corporals and below, describing them as “the backbone of the Army”.
“I have no doubt that the activities you participated in have improved your physical and mental capacity and prepared you for battle in view of the present security challenges confronting our nation,” he added.
He urged participants to return to their units with the knowledge gained, stressing that professionalism must remain their watchword.
Earlier, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Balogun, Commander, 4 Brigade, who hosted the event, said the competition had demonstrated “remarkable displays of skills, leadership and teamwork” among soldiers.
“This competition is not just about winning or losing; it is about fostering unity, resilience and continuous improvement.
“The lessons learned here will enhance operational effectiveness and strengthen team spirit,” he said.
He reaffirmed the brigade’s loyalty to the leadership of the Nigerian Army and its commitment to advancing the Chief of Army Staff’s vision of a more professional, combat-ready and resilient force.
NAN reports that the event also spotlighted female soldiers, with a major highlight being the presentation of over N3 million in cash prizes to women finalists in the obstacle crossing event.
The cash prizes was sponsored by Mr Jude Nosagie, Chairman of Precious Palm Royal Hotels, Benin,
In addition, the chairman also pledged a motorcycle each to the 12 soldiers from the 4 Brigade who won the obstacle crossing event.
Meanwhile, outstanding participants were also presented with individual cash prizes and medal by the organisers of the competition.(NAN)(www.nannews)
AUO/DCO
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Edited by Deborah Coker
