By Ameh Gabriel
Abuja, August 18, 2025 – The Nigerian Army has taken a bold step to boost the operational fitness and combat readiness of its personnel with the introduction of combat swimming into its training regime. The initiative was unveiled on Monday at the opening of the Guards Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition 2025 in Abuja.
The week-long competition, designed for commissioned officers, will feature rigorous drills including skills-at-arms, marksmanship, a 15km combat endurance run, obstacle crossing, map reading, and combat swimming. The aim is to sharpen physical endurance, tactical decision-making, and adaptability in diverse operational environments.
Declaring the competition open, the Special Guest of Honour, Major General Mohammed Takuti Usman, emphasized that training remains the bedrock of military effectiveness, particularly in the face of Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
“Training is not just an activity – it is an imperative. Preparedness is the key to success and victory,” Maj Gen Usman said, echoing General Douglas MacArthur’s maxim.
He praised the Commander Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Olabisi Onasanya, for aligning the competition with the Nigerian Army Headquarters Training Directive 2025, which prioritizes enhanced combat effectiveness and leadership excellence.
Maj Gen Usman described officers as the “command engine” of the Nigerian Army, responsible for leading troops in battle and making critical decisions under pressure. He urged participants to compete not only for victory but also to refine their leadership qualities, sharpen decision-making, and embody courage and professionalism.
He also highlighted the Guards Brigade’s expanding operational role beyond presidential security and ceremonial duties, stressing its importance in protecting the Federal Capital Territory and contributing to national security.
Commander Guards Brigade, Brig Gen Onasanya, described the competition as “a pivotal milestone in the Brigade’s training calendar” and a reflection of the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy of building a well-motivated and combat-ready force.
“Every challenge undertaken in this competition translates to operational readiness on the battlefield. Push beyond your limits, for your tenacity will define our collective readiness as an elite force,” he charged the officers.
The opening day featured the combat swimming exercise, where the Army Garrison Team emerged first, clocking 5 minutes and 6 seconds.
Brig Gen Onasanya commended the judges and organizing committee for ensuring fairness and credibility, urging participants to uphold professionalism, discipline, and the competitive spirit.
“The nation watches when the Guards Brigade steps onto the field. Let us set a standard that inspires the entire Nigerian Army,” he said.
The ceremony was graced by senior officers, dignitaries, and invited guests who joined the Brigade in celebrating the dedication of troops committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Your blog is a true hidden gem on the internet. Your thoughtful analysis and in-depth commentary set you apart from the crowd. Keep up the excellent work!
I wanted to take a moment to commend you on the outstanding quality of your blog. Your dedication to excellence is evident in every aspect of your writing. Truly impressive!