GOC Accuses Participants of Poor Discipline and Professionalism as 81st Division Inter‑Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition Commences

Chiemelie Ezeobi

Major General Adebayo Babalola, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, called on participants of the 81 Division Inter‑Brigade Warrant Officers and Senior Non‑Commissioned Officers (WOs/SNCOs) Combat Proficiency Competition 2026 to exhibit discipline, professionalism and excellence throughout the event.

Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 81 Division, reported that the GOC delivered the message during the opening ceremony held on Monday, 15 June 2026 at the 192 Battalion Parade Ground in Owode‑Yewa, Ogun State.

Represented by the Division Training Officer, Brigadier General HM Bello, the GOC described the competition as a key platform for assessing professional competence, reinforcing military standards and enhancing operational effectiveness across the Division.

Major General Babalola emphasized that warrant officers and senior non‑commissioned officers are essential to maintaining discipline and operational efficiency within the armed forces. He referred to them as custodians of military standards and the vital link between officers and soldiers.

He explained that the competition is designed to evaluate participants’ leadership skills, military knowledge, physical fitness and ability to perform under pressure, while also fostering professional camaraderie and encouraging the exchange of best practices among formations.

The GOC urged all competitors to uphold integrity, sportsmanship and strict adherence to established procedures, stressing that military standards must be preserved at all times.

Earlier, Brigadier General AI Getso, Commander of the 81 Division Garrison, represented by the Acting Commanding Officer of the Admin Battalion, Major SS Maikasuwa, said the competition aimed to strengthen leadership skills, professional competence, esprit de corps and combat readiness among WOs and SNCOs in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy.

He expressed gratitude to the GOC for his continued support and for assigning the Garrison the responsibility of hosting the competition.

The opening ceremony was attended by senior officers, officers, warrant officers and senior non‑commissioned officers. Highlights included the inspection of contingents and the administration of the oath of impartiality by the Chief Umpire.