Nigerian Army Kicks Off 2024 Small Arms Championship with 542 Personnel Competing
By Matthew Eloyi
No fewer than 542 personnel are participating in the 2024 Nigerian Army Small Arms Championship (NASAC), which commenced at the Jaji Military Cantonment Range, Kaduna State.
The week-long event features 109 officers and 433 soldiers from various divisions of the Nigerian Army, including the Army Headquarters Garrison, Abuja; 1 Division Kaduna; 2 Division Ibadan; 3 Division Jos; and other divisions across the country.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command Nigerian Army (TRADOCNA), officially kicked off the championship.
In his remarks, Lagbaja emphasised the critical role of well-trained personnel in the success of military operations.
“The championship is aimed at testing and enhancing the competencies of personnel in handling various small arms in the Nigerian Army inventory. It is not just a competition in marksmanship, but a holistic exercise that tests various aspects of military professionalism, discipline, and the ability to respond effectively to a wide range of security challenges,” Lagbaja said.
He highlighted that the Nigerian Army places high importance on training and preparedness, noting that competitions like NASAC are designed to reinforce operational proficiency and military effectiveness, which are key components of his command philosophy.
He stressed that the skills demonstrated during the championship would help ensure that the Nigerian Army remains a formidable force capable of confronting the diverse threats facing the nation.
“The Nigerian Army Small Arms Championship is not just an exercise in shooting accuracy; it is an embodiment of the values and principles that define us as soldiers. As we continue to confront security threats ranging from insurgency and terrorism to banditry and other forms of criminality, your proficiency in the use of small arms will play a decisive role in securing victory,” Lagbaja added.
He urged participants to let the competition inspire them to become better soldiers, more determined to protect the nation, and better prepared to face any adversary.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 1 Division Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, also spoke at the event.
He noted that the championship is essential for assessing and improving troops’ proficiency in handling small arms.
Saraso, who is also the Commander of Sector 1, Joint Task Force Northwest Operation Fansan Yanma, encouraged soldiers to remain professional, focused, and committed throughout the competition.
He further praised the COAS for his unwavering support of the championship.
The event, which brings together soldiers from across Nigeria, serves as a platform for honing combat readiness and reinforcing the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting the nation and its people.