Nigerian Army Holds 2 Division Inter-Brigade Competition in Benin

The Nigerian Army has commenced the 2026 edition of its 2 Division Inter-Brigade Corporals and Below Competition in Benin City, Edo State.

The week-long combat exercise, which began on Monday at the Ekehuan Barracks, is being hosted by the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army.

In his welcome address, the Commander of 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, described the competition as timely, given the evolving security challenges facing the country. He said the exercise is designed to sharpen combat proficiency, leadership skills, teamwork, and endurance among junior soldiers.

Balogun explained that participants will compete in events such as drill, weapon handling and firing, combat cross-country run 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—urged participants to maintain professionalism and adhere strictly to the rules.

He assured that credible umpires and judges have been appointed to ensure fairness, noting that no team would be favoured.

The GOC also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for providing the resources required for the competition, as well as the Army Headquarters Department of Army Training for its continued support.

Participating formations include 4 Brigade, 12 Brigade, 32 Artillery Brigade, 22 Armoured Brigade, 42/52 Engineers and Signals Brigade, and 2 Division Garrison.

The opening ceremony was attended by heads of security agencies in Edo State and other dignitaries. Activities on the first day featured drill competitions, presentation of souvenirs, and group photographs.