The 176 Guards Battalion has emerged as the overall winner of the 2026 Guards Brigade Corporals and Below Competition, securing a commanding 390 points to top the standings.
The competition, designed to test endurance, discipline, and operational readiness among participating units, featured strong performances across the board.
The 7 Guards Battalion placed second with 320 points, edging out the 177 Battalion, which also scored 320 points but ranked third based on weapon handling performance criteria. Guards Brigade Garrison finished fourth with 290 points, while the 102 Battalion came fifth with 280 points.
In the timing-based group category, the 176 Guards Battalion further demonstrated its dominance, finishing first with an impressive time of 17 minutes and 4 seconds.
The 117 Battalion placed second, followed by Guards Brigade Garrison in third position. The 102 Battalion and 7 Guards Battalion finished fourth and fifth respectively.
In the individual events, Lance Corporal John Tochukulwu of 6 Guards Battalion emerged as the best performer in the male category, while Gabriel Lucy of 176 Guards Battalion clinched the top position in the female category.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Onasanya, described the competition as a vital component of the Nigerian Army’s training framework.
He emphasised that continuous and structured training is essential for enhancing performance, developing new skills, and promoting both personal and professional growth among personnel.
Onasanya stressed that the Nigerian Army places a high premium on sustained training to build discipline, resilience, and teamwork, noting that the evolving nature of modern warfare requires optimal performance and high training standards.
He added that the competition aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy of building a more professional, adaptable, and combat-ready force capable of operating effectively in joint and multi-agency environments.
The brigade commander commended participants for their efforts and urged them to maintain discipline, sportsmanship, and commitment to excellence. He also praised the organisers and judging panel for ensuring fairness and professionalism throughout the exercise.
Onasanya further expressed appreciation to invited guests, including security agencies and members of the media, for their support.
The strong performance of the 176 Guards Battalion across multiple categories highlighted its operational preparedness and reinforced the Nigerian Army’s commitment to excellence and professionalism. Individual soldiers were also recognised with awards for outstanding performances in various categories of the competition.
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