The 22 Armoured Brigade Ilorin emerged as the winner of the 2 Division Inter-Brigade Corporal and Below competition, held at the 12 Brigade headquarters in Charimaigumeri Barracks, Lokoja. The competition, which took place over five days starting on April 7, aimed to improve combat proficiency, leadership, and teamwork among soldiers.
The competing brigades included 4 Brigade Benin, 12 Brigade Lokoja, 22 Armoured Brigade Ilorin, 32 Artillery Brigade Akure, 42 Engineer Brigade Ede, and 2 Division Garrison Ibadan.
At the closing ceremony on Friday, Chief Judge of the competition, Col. Adeniyi Adebayo, announced that 22 Brigade secured first place with 430 points, followed by 12 Brigade in second with 400 points. 42 Engineer Brigade took third with 380 points, while 32 Brigade placed fourth with 360 points. 4 Brigade earned fifth with 350 points, and 2 Division Garrison finished last with 330 points, receiving the Wooden Spoon award.
In his closing remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Maj. Gen. Obinna Onubogu, praised the participants for their dedication, skill, and professionalism. He highlighted the importance of training in building the capability of soldiers to face challenges in a complex security environment.
“This competition is not only timely but key in improving the combat readiness of our soldiers. We must continue to train and prepare for future competitions," he said. He also emphasized that the Division would maintain its focus on training to perfect tactics and procedures aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) Command Philosophy, ensuring a well-motivated and combat-ready force.
Maj. Gen. Onubogu also expressed his appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his continued support in providing resources for training activities, as well as to the Chief Judge and his team for their efforts in managing the competition.
Earlier, Brig. Gen. Kasim Sidi, Commander of 12 Brigade, remarked that the competition had prepared corporals and junior soldiers for greater responsibilities. He praised the soldiers for their courage, teamwork, resilience, and military professionalism, which he said were the foundation of operational success.
“This competition was not just about winning trophies, but about sharpening our skills, strengthening bonds, and reinforcing the culture of excellence that defines the Nigerian Army," Brig. Gen. Sidi said.
He also expressed gratitude to the GOC for his leadership, noting that the competition had aligned with the COAS's goal of transforming the Nigerian Army into a more effective and combat-ready force capable of fulfilling its constitutional duties in a joint, multi-agency environment.
As the competition concluded, Brig. Gen. Sidi encouraged the soldiers to carry forward the lessons learned, underscoring that “Strength does not come from winning; your struggles develop your strength.
