The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam has reiterated that the measure of a soldier is not the medals he is wearing, but in character and level of dedication to duty. He made this known at the closing ceremony of a 5-Day 6 Division Inter Brigade Combat Proficiency 2024 Competition held at the 6 Division Physical Training Obstacle Course Ground, Port Harcourt Barracks.
The GOC who was represented by the Commander 6 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, added that the remarkable performances displayed by officers during the Competition as they tackle the grueling challenges of the fitness race, map reading, combat swimming, skill at arms, shooting as well as obstacle crossing clearly demonstrated their high level of dedication and commitment.
He further stressed that the events were carefully designed to push the boundaries of the officers of 6 Division’s physical and mental capabilities, preparing them towards leading their troops with confidence and resilience in the face of any operational challenge in their chosen career.
“Having witnessed the level of expertise, teamwork and strategic thinking displayed by each and every participant, your commitment to excellence has not only raised the bar for future competitions but also serve as an inspiration and assurance for the entire Division in terms of operational efficiency and success” he said.
Major General Abdussalam congratulated the winners of the competition, adding that their victory is a reflection of hard work, perseverance and untiring commitment to the profession of arms. “This achievement is not only a personal triumph, but also a testament to the strength and resilience of the Division” he affirmed.
Speaking further, he encouraged the formations that couldn’t win to take the experience as a learning opportunity,hence it will serve as motivation to train harder, improve their skills and return even stronger for subsequent competitions.
He urged all the participants to uphold the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff in all they do. He maintained that it will help them excel not only in their individual tasks but also promote a culture of friendship, mutual support and shared responsibility within formations, he advised.
At the end of the 5-day competition, which featured 3.2km combat race, map reading, combat swimming, skill at arms/weapon handling and obstacle crossing, the 6 Division Garrison emerged first position with the total of 470 points, 2 and 16 Brigades came 2nd and 3rd positions with 460 and 400 points respectively. While, 63 Brigade took the last position with a total of 370 points.
Highpoints of the event were presentation of outstanding individual medals, presentation of trophies and wooden spoon to the deserving formations and group photographs.