The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Eyitayo Folusho Oyinlola, has charged troops to maintain discipline, resilience, and sportsmanship as the 2025 edition of the 3 Division Inter-Brigade Corporal and Below Competition got underway in Taraba State.
Speaking through the Commander of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Major General Oyinlola gave the charge while declaring the event open at the 20 Model Battalion Parade Ground in Serti Baruwa, Gashaka Local Government Area.
Emphasizing the broader purpose of the competition, Oyinlola noted that beyond winning, the event serves as a platform for learning, bonding, and strengthening the unity that characterizes the Nigerian Army.
“This competition is not just about winning; it is about learning, bonding, and building the strength that defines the Nigerian Army,” he said, urging participants to embrace healthy rivalry and mutual respect throughout the competition.
He pointed out that the annual contest forms an integral part of the Army’s training program, designed to enhance combat proficiency, leadership development, endurance, teamwork, and organizational capability among junior soldiers qualities he described as crucial for tackling the nation’s evolving security challenges.
The GOC also underscored that the competition aligns with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, which focuses on consolidating the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a well-motivated and combat-ready force capable of effectively executing its constitutional roles within a joint and multi-agency framework.
Reassuring residents of Taraba State, Major General Oyinlola affirmed the Army’s continued commitment to peace and security in the region, stating that the 6 Brigade remains unwavering in its efforts to ensure that criminals and enemies of peace have no hiding place.
“We remain steadfast in securing lives and property, and fostering an environment conducive to peace, growth, and development,” he said.
Formations participating in this year’s competition include 6 Brigade Jalingo, 23 Brigade Yola, 33 Artillery Brigade Bauchi, 3 Division Garrison Jos, 43 Engineer Brigade, and 53 Signal Brigade, all under the 3 Division.
Events scheduled for the competition, according to information gathered by our correspondent, include drills, map reading, swimming, cross-country runs, weapons handling, and obstacle crossing.