8 Division Nigerian Army Flags Off 2026 Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition in Sokoto
The 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 2, Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, has commenced its 2026 Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition in Sokoto State as part of efforts to strengthen the operational readiness and combat effectiveness of troops.
The competition was flagged off by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 JTF Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Paul Koughna, who was represented at the ceremony by the Division’s Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Ibrahim Gambari.
The exercise is designed to test and improve the physical fitness, combat readiness, discipline, professional knowledge, leadership skills and tactical competence of personnel across formations under the 8 Division.
Speaking at the event, Major General Koughna said the competition would provide an opportunity for participating troops to demonstrate their resilience, leadership abilities and preparedness for real-world military operations, while also fostering healthy rivalry and strengthening the spirit of camaraderie among the participating formations.
He stressed that continuous training and retraining remain essential to maintaining military professionalism and ensuring that troops are adequately prepared to confront evolving security threats.
According to him, combat proficiency remains a critical indicator of the Nigerian Army’s readiness and effectiveness as a fighting force.
The GOC explained that participants would undergo rigorous assessments covering professional military knowledge, leadership, marksmanship and tactical proficiency, alongside physically demanding activities designed to test their mental and physical endurance.
He urged all competitors to maintain the highest standards of discipline and determination, adhere strictly to the rules of the competition and demonstrate sportsmanship throughout the exercise.
Koughna also encouraged the participants to compete with the objective of bringing honour to their respective brigades while using the opportunity to sharpen their skills and improve their operational capabilities.
Earlier, the Commander, 8 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Isidore Amah, described the competition as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the operational capacity and resilience of troops.
He noted that the exercise goes beyond competition, stressing that it represents a deliberate effort to improve the training, discipline, tactical competence and battlefield preparedness of personnel.
The competition features a series of demanding military activities, including map reading, swimming, military drills, endurance runs, weapon handling and other tactical exercises.
The activities are designed to assess the ability of troops to operate effectively under pressure while strengthening the skills required for successful military operations.
The 2026 Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition therefore underscores the Nigerian Army’s continued emphasis on professional training, operational preparedness and combat excellence, particularly as troops remain engaged in efforts to address security challenges across the country.
8 Division Nigerian Army Flags Off 2026 Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition in Sokoto