Abuja, April 13, 2026 — The Nigerian Army has emphasized the importance of sustained and more rigorous training to improve operational performance and maintain combat readiness across its formations.
The Director of Support Services at Defence Headquarters, Maj.-Gen. Isiaka Olatunji, made the remark on Monday during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Guards Brigade Corporals and Below Competition in Abuja.
He noted that continuous training remains central to military effectiveness, adding that modern security challenges require constant skill enhancement and regular field exercises.
Olatunji explained that the competition was created to evaluate the physical fitness, mental alertness and tactical competence of junior personnel, who play a key role in field operations.
According to him, soldiers in the ranks of corporal and below are often the ones directly involved in executing missions and engaging threats on the ground.
He stressed that operational success depends heavily on their preparedness, describing training as a non-negotiable requirement for survival in combat situations.
The exercise, he said, is also aimed at improving discipline, endurance, teamwork and overall readiness among participants.
He further highlighted the strategic importance of the Guards Brigade, noting its dual responsibility for ceremonial duties and operational tasks within the Federal Capital Territory and beyond.
Olatunji encouraged participants to take full advantage of the competition, saying consistent challenge and discipline are key to achieving excellence.
He also urged troops to maintain professionalism and demonstrate high standards throughout the training exercise.
In his remarks, the Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, said the competition reflects the Chief of Army Staff’s vision of developing a more adaptable and combat-ready force.
Onasanya added that the exercise would assess soldiers’ weapon handling abilities, physical conditioning and decision-making skills under pressure.
He noted that outcomes from the competition would help determine the readiness of troops for future operational deployments.
The annual Guards Brigade Corporals and Below Competition brings together units for intensive drills and tactical exercises aimed at enhancing efficiency, discipline and professionalism within the Nigerian Army.