Major General AE Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), inaugurated the 3 Division Corporal and Below Competition 2024.
This one-week event, held at the 82 Battalion parade ground in Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, aims to enhance the proficiency of troops in line with the leadership, operational effectiveness, and sound administration principles outlined by the Chief of Army Staff.
Major General Abubakar emphasized the importance of this competition in preparing soldiers to safeguard citizens effectively.
Acknowledging the troops’ efforts in addressing various security threats within the 3 Division’s area of responsibility, Major General Abubakar underscored the significance of continuously improving troops’ competence.
He highlighted the diverse security challenges faced daily, including kidnapping, banditry, arms trafficking, ethno-religious conflicts, and farmer-herder clashes, urging participants to strive for excellence and readiness in confronting these challenges.
Brigadier General AU Gumel, representing the GOC/Commander OPSH, outlined the benefits of the competition, including fostering camaraderie, promoting healthy competition among formations, and encouraging initiative and sound judgment among troops.
He emphasized the recent enhancement of training activities through competitions across the country, aiming to elevate the Division’s competence in combating criminal activities.
Brigadier General MK Sanda, the Commander of the 3 Division Garrison, assured adequate preparations for the competition’s success.
He encouraged participants to forge new bonds and exchange knowledge during the event.
Lieutenant Colonel HA Hammadu, representing the Commander 3 Garrison, reiterated the competition’s importance in enhancing troops’ physical fitness and professional competence, particularly in leadership roles.
The event aligns with the 3 Division’s training objectives for the year, aiming to empower corporals and below with the necessary skills to lead effectively in the field.
Six formations within the 3 Division Area of Responsibility, including 6 Brigade Jalingo, 23 Brigade Yola, 33 Artillery Brigade Bauchi, 3 Division Garrison, 43 Engineer Brigade, and 53 Signal Brigade Jos, will compete in various activities such as drills, map reading, endurance challenges, and obstacles crossing.
The opening ceremony attracted commanders from different formations, heads of security agencies on the plateau, and staff officers at Headquarters 3 Division, emphasizing the collaborative effort towards enhancing the Division’s operational readiness and effectiveness.
