Excitement As 82 Division Inter Brigade Combat Proficiency Ends On A High Note

Excitement As 82 Division Inter Brigade Combat Proficiency Ends On A High Note

The atmosphere at Obinze Barracks, Imo State, was filled with excitement on Friday, 22 August 2025, as 34 Artillery Brigade, the host formation, emerged overall winner of the 82 Division Nigerian Army (NA) Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition. The event, which took place at the Brigade’s Shooting Range, marked another milestone in the Division’s commitment to enhancing combat readiness, fostering teamwork, and promoting physical and mental resilience among its formations.

The competition featured 5 formidable formations: 13 Brigade, 14 Brigade, 34 Artillery Brigade, 44 Engineer Brigade, and 82 Division Garrison. Participants showcased exceptional discipline and skills in a series of demanding events including combat swimming, map reading, cross-country, skills at arms, and obstacle crossing. These activities tested the tactical proficiency, endurance, and resilience of troops, reinforcing the NA’s operational standards and esprit de corps.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Special Guest of Honour, Major General Oluyemi Thomas Olatoye, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division NA, ably represented by the Commander 54 Signal Brigade, Brigadier General Solomon Julius, commended the participants for their zeal, discipline, and professionalism. He emphasized the importance of keeping troops battle-ready, mentally alert, and physically fit for future tasks, stressing that these attributes are the hallmarks of a combat-ready force.

The GOC further congratulated all participants for their impressive performances and urged 34 Artillery Brigade not to rest on its laurels. He noted that victory is not merely a destination but a responsibility that must be sustained. He charged the winning formation to continue striving for excellence while appreciating all brigades for their spirited efforts. He also expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, for his steadfast commitment to building a well-trained, motivated, and combat-ready force capable of fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities in a joint and multi-agency environment.

In his welcome address, the Commander 34 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Ibrahim Abbas, thanked Headquarters 82 Division for granting the Brigade the honour of hosting the competition. He reaffirmed his formation’s commitment to upholding the core values and standards of the Nigerian Army.

The ceremony climaxed with the presentation of trophies and medals to deserving formations and individuals, followed by a group photograph and a light reception at the Officers’ Mess.

The 2025 edition of the 82 Division Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition not only celebrated victory but also showcased the enduring spirit, professionalism, and unity that underscore the Nigerian Army’s operational excellence.