Nigerian Army Kicks Off 2 Division Inter-Brigade Combat Competition in Benin
The Nigerian Army has commenced the 2026 edition of the 2 Division Inter-Brigade Corporals and Below Competition at Ekehuan Barracks in Benin City, Edo State, in a move aimed at strengthening the operational readiness and combat effectiveness of junior soldiers.
The week-long exercise, hosted by 4 Brigade, began on Monday with participating formations drawn from across the 2 Division area of responsibility. The competition is designed to test and enhance the tactical proficiency, endurance, leadership, and teamwork of corporals and below within the Army.
In his welcome address, the Commander, 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, said the timing of the competition was critical, given Nigeria’s evolving security challenges. He noted that the exercise would sharpen the combat skills and organisational capacity of participants while fostering esprit de corps among troops.
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According to him, events lined up for the competition include drill, weapon handling and firing, combat cross-country runs and obstacle crossing, map reading, and combat swimming.
Declaring the competition open, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, represented by Brigadier General Justin Ifeanyi, Commander 32 Artillery Brigade, urged participants to maintain professionalism and discipline throughout the exercise.
He assured competitors of fairness and transparency, stating that competent and impartial umpires had been appointed to oversee the events. He also emphasised that adequate arrangements had been made to ensure a smooth and successful competition.
The GOC further expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for providing the necessary resources for the event, as well as to the Army Headquarters Department of Army Training for its continued support in improving the annual exercise.
Participating formations in the 2026 competition include 4 Brigade, 12 Brigade, 32 Artillery Brigade, 22 Armoured Brigade, 42/52 Engineers and Signals Brigade, and 2 Division Garrison.
The opening ceremony attracted heads of security agencies in Edo State and other dignitaries. Highlights of the first day featured a drill competition among formations, presentation of souvenirs, and group photographs.
The competition is expected to run throughout the week, with winners to emerge across various combat and tactical categories.