By Nkechi Eze
The Army Headquarters (AHQ) Garrison has successfully concluded the 2025 edition of its Inter-Formation Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) Competition, an annual event aimed at enhancing combat readiness, physical endurance, and tactical leadership among the Army’s most experienced personnel. The grand finale took place on Friday, 20 June 2025, at the 7 Guards Battalion Obstacle Crossing Ground in Abuja.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, AHQ Garrison, Lieutenant Colonel Njideka Clara Agwu, the event drew participants from various formations and units under the AHQ Garrison. It featured a series of rigorous challenges designed to simulate battlefield conditions, reinforce operational discipline, and foster teamwork among competitors.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, the Commander Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, praised the outstanding display of discipline, commitment, and professionalism throughout the competition. He noted that while winning was important, the true value of the exercise lay in developing the physical fitness, mental resilience, and leadership acumen required of the SNCO cadre.
“This competition is not merely a contest; it is a critical component of our mission-readiness culture. It reflects real battlefield demands and reinforces the essential leadership role that Warrant Officers and SNCOs play as the backbone of the military,” he stated.
Major General Dangana further lauded the participants for their teamwork and regimental conduct and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to nurturing professional excellence and esprit de corps within its ranks.
In a symbolic show of solidarity, the Chief of Staff, AHQ Garrison, Brigadier General Peter Elayo, joined troops on the field and scaled one of the obstacles alongside them, drawing cheers from participants and guests.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Garrison Training Officer, Brigadier General Ndareke Orok represented by Lieutenant Colonel Usman Adamu commended the participating formations for their high level of professionalism and dedication. He emphasized that the competition was part of the Army’s broader efforts to sustain a culture of continuous training, which remains vital to operational effectiveness.
He urged participants to carry the knowledge and experience gained back to their various units and to continue setting exemplary standards of conduct, discipline, and leadership.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards to outstanding formations and individuals, as well as souvenirs to commemorate the competition.
The Inter-Formation WOs and SNCOs Competition continues to serve as a vital platform for reinforcing the Nigerian Army’s core values of loyalty, courage, and selfless service while preparing its senior enlisted personnel for the dynamic demands of modern military operations.
