177 Guards Battalion Clinches Top Spot in Weapon Handling As Guards Brigade Launches 2025 WO/SNCO Competition
The Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army has flagged off its 2025 Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (WO/SNCO) Competition at Shittu Alao Barracks in Keffi, with the 177 Guards Battalion emerging victorious in the fiercely contested Weapon Handling and Shooting Competition.
The opening ceremony, held under tight regimental precision, drew senior military officials and participants from across five units under the Brigade, including battalions from Lungi Barracks (7 Guards), Suleja (102 Guards), Gwagwalada (176 Guards), Keffi (177 Guards), and the Guards Brigade Garrison in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the Commander of the 4 Special Forces Command, Major General Hilary Nzan represented by Brigadier General Murtala Abuh noted that the competition is a critical assessment of combat readiness and team efficiency among middle-tier military leadership.
“This exercise not only sharpens tactical skills but reinforces the discipline and professionalism expected from our Warrant Officers and SNCOs, who are the backbone of the Nigerian Army,” he said. “It aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s vision of a highly motivated and combat-effective force, especially at a time when our nation faces complex security challenges.”
Over the course of the competition, participants will engage in a series of rigorous activities including drills, obstacle crossing, endurance races, navigation tasks, physical fitness tests, and swimming all tailored to enhance operational capability and resilience.
In his welcome address, Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Olusegun Onasanya represented by Colonel Abdulrahman Bello emphasised the importance of such events in building unit cohesion and fostering esprit de corps.
“This competition is not merely about winning; it’s about developing leaders who can thrive under pressure, lead with discipline, and demonstrate tactical excellence,” he said.
The highlight of the day was the weapon handling and shooting exercise, which tested participants’ precision, calm under pressure, and overall combat preparedness.
The 177 Guards Battalion, playing on home turf in Keffi, proved its mettle by claiming the top position.
The competition continues in the days ahead, promising more displays of endurance, skill, and professionalism from some of the Army’s finest.
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