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By Akanji Alowolodu, Bauchi
As of its combat readiness and to keep personnel on alert and fitness, Nigerian Army has commenced a 3-days obstacles crossing competition among its various formations across the country.
While declaring the competition opened, on Tuesday in Bauchi, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya said that the Inter formation Platoon Obstacles Crossing Competition has been reviewed with a view to encapsulating the challenges troops faced in the various operating environment.
The Army Chief also said that the competition will create an environment for the display of military camaraderie in line with his desire for cooperation and unity of efforts in the conduct of training for operations.
Farouk Yahaya said that, “This year’s Inter Formation Platoon Obstacles Crossing Competition is aimed at moving sporting activities in the Nigerian Army from the realm of sports only, to the threshold of training for combat operations.”
He added that, “The competition was also organized to bring out the soldiering skills in the participants and build physical endurance and team work amongst others.”
Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya who was represented by Major General Sulaiman Idris said that the competition will enhance the physical and mental endurance of the participants.
In his address, Bauchi State Government reiterated that it will continue to work in active synergy with security agencies by giving them the necessary support in order to ensure crime free state.
The State Governor, Sen Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir who was represented by the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier General Marcus Yake (rtd) made the assertion at the opening of the competition.
The Security Adviser said the administration of Governor Bala Mohammed is working assiduously with the support and cooperation of security agencies to ensure the maintenance of peace and security in the state.
Markus Yake added that, “The importance of this exercise cannot be over emphasized especially in preparing troops for the task ahead. The best welfare you can give to a soldier is training.”
He also stressed that, “Security Agencies including the Nigerian Army have a great role to play in the maintenance of peace and security and with that our Governor is giving them the necessary support for them to discharge their responsibilities diligently.”
The Retired General said that Bauchi state being one of the most peaceful state in Nigeria, the state government will continue to collaborate with critical stakeholders for effective security management.
