The Nigerian Army has officially kicked off the 2024 edition of its Small Arms Championship (NASAC), a biennial event designed to test and enhance the combat readiness of its personnel. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, inaugurated the event on October 21, 2024, at the Jaji Military Cantonment Range, Kaduna State. The championship, which is hosted by 1 Division Nigerian Army, brings together nine formations from across the country for a rigorous display of skill and military precision.
The formations participating in the event include Army Headquarters Garrison Abuja, 1 Division NA Kaduna, 2 Division NA Ibadan, 3 Division NA Jos, 6 Division NA Port Harcourt, 8 Division NA Sokoto, 81 Division NA Lagos, 82 Division NA Enugu, and 4 Special Forces Command Doma, Nasarawa State. Each will compete in various shooting exercises designed to evaluate their professionalism and operational readiness.
Speaking on behalf of the COAS, the Commander of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Maj. Gen. Kelvin Aligbe, underscored the significance of NASAC, stressing that it is not merely a competition but a comprehensive test of personnel’s discipline, decision-making, and preparedness to tackle contemporary security threats. “In an era marked by insurgency, terrorism, and violent extremism, well-trained and coordinated personnel are the backbone of successful military operations,” he noted.
Maj. Gen. Aligbe also highlighted the importance of teamwork, urging participants to focus on collaboration and unity—key components for overcoming security challenges facing Nigeria. He expressed optimism that NASAC 2024 would further enhance participants’ operational confidence and sharpen their tactical skills, contributing to the overall efficiency of the Nigerian Army.
The Nigerian Army’s commitment to national security was further reiterated as Maj. Gen. Aligbe reaffirmed the institution’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He pledged that the Army remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the nation and confront emerging security challenges head-on.
In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Maj. Gen. Mayirenso Lander Saraso, expressed gratitude to the COAS for choosing 1 Division to host the prestigious event and for ensuring timely funding and support. He emphasized that “skill at arms” plays a critical role in assessing troops’ combat readiness and building on regular field exercises and proficiency drills. Maj. Gen. Saraso also called for fairness and professionalism throughout the competition, reminding participants that their performance is a reflection of their formations.
The opening ceremony featured a range of formal activities, including an oath-taking by participants and officials, the presentation of commemorative souvenirs, and a series of group photographs to mark the commencement of the championship.
NASAC 2024 promises to be an event that not only strengthens individual marksmanship but also enhances the collective preparedness of the Nigerian Army in defending the nation against both current and future threats.
Musa Adams Yahaya
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations
1 Division, Nigerian Army
October 21, 2024
PIONEER NEWS 