By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, says sustained and realistic training remains crucial to improving the Nigerian Army’s operational readiness in addressing the nation’s complex security challenges.
Oluyede stated this on Thursday at the 2025 Nigerian Army Inter-Formation Cross Country Competition, hosted by the Army Headquarters Garrison in Abuja.
He was represented by the Deputy Chief of Training (Courses and Examination), Maj.-Gen. Ayoola Aboaba, at the annual event designed to test the physical fitness, discipline, and combat preparedness of troops.
The COAS said the competition provides a vital platform for formations to assess and strengthen their combat capabilities.
“Training is the lifeblood of every professional army.
“For us to remain effective against terrorism, insurgency, and other internal threats, our personnel must continually sharpen their skills and maintain peak physical and mental fitness,” he said.
Oluyede noted that Nigeria’s evolving security environment demands a force that is adaptable, proactive, and always prepared for complex operations across multiple theatres.
He urged troops to view the competition not merely as a contest but as an opportunity to deepen teamwork, discipline, and operational synergy.
“The lessons learned here must reflect in the field. True victory lies in improved performance, renewed commitment, and mission success,” he added.
The COAS commended the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) for organising the event and ensuring that the Army’s training standards remain aligned with global best practices.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continuous support and confidence in the Nigerian Army’s transformation drive.
The competition brought together formations from across the country to showcase endurance as part of efforts to sustain combat efficiency and operational excellence.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 3 Division Nigerian Army Jos, emerged overall winner, finishing at 01 hour, 9 minutes and 4 seconds.
The 1 Division Nigerian Army Kaduna came second finishing at 1 hour, 11 minutes and 4 seconds, while 81 Division Nigerian Army Lagos, came third, finishing at 1 hour, 13 minutes and 9 seconds.
The participating formations are 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 81 and Divisions as well as Army Headquarters Garrison and 4 Special Forces Command Doma, Nasarawa State.
Also, individual awards were given to participating officers and soldiers who finished the run at the shortest time.
A total of 288 officers and soldiers participated in the competition. (NAN)