Nigerian Army Small Arms Championship Opens In Kaduna

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja has identified proficiency in the use of small arms by personnel as a key player in tackling security challenges.

He stated this while declaring open the 2024 Nigerian Army Small Arms Championship held at the Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna State.

Represented by Major General Kelvin Aligbe, the Army Chief explained that the championship was not just a competition in marksmanship but a holistic exercise that tests various aspects of military professionalism, discipline and the ability to respond effectively to a wide range of security challenges.

He pointed out that the Nigerian Army had always placed a high premium on training and preparedness, which are the bedrock of success in military operations.

Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja noted that the ability to deliver precise and decisive action on the battlefield in any operation was critical to achieving mission success.

He therefore charged the participants to work together in spirit and co-operation and mutual support.

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Earlier in his welcome remarks, the General Officer Commanding One Division Kaduna, Major General Mayirenso Lander Saraso, explained that the championship was organised to assess the improvement in troops proficiency in handling small arms, and a platform for the participants to demonstrate their innate abilities in handling small arms.

The GOC, who is also the Chief host, noted that beyond the physical benefits, a competition of this nature offers the opportunity for personnel from various formations and different theatres across the country to interact with one another.

Major General Saraso urged all participants to remain professional, focused and committed during the championship, while also urging the umpires to follow the laid down rules to ensure a successful exercise.

The competition is a bi-annual event among the Nigerian Army formations, aimed at sharpening the marksmanship skills in firing accuracy for personnel.

A total of 109 officers and 433 soldiers from 9 formations of the Nigerian Army, with the exception of 7 Division Maiduguri, are expected to participate in the five-day championship.