By Lawrence Audu
The Chief of Army Standard and Evaluation (CASE), Major General Olumuyiwa Robert Aiyenigba, has underscored the indispensable role of physical fitness and sports in our daily lives.
General Aiyenigba gave the remarks during the commencement of the Guards Brigade Sports Week at the Headquarters Guards Brigade Sports Complex in Aguyi Ironsi Cantonment, Asokoro, Abuja.
This significant event aligns with the Chief of Army Staff Command Philosophy, a visionary approach aimed at transforming the Nigerian Army into a highly motivated, well-trained, and equipped force.
General Aiyenigba, expressed his belief that maintaining physical fitness and engaging in regular exercise are vital components of a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle. He emphasized that this event provides an exceptional opportunity for participants to remain fit while also contributing to the development of able-bodied men and women in sports within the Nigerian Army.
The Chief of Army Standard and Evaluation’s declaration serves as a powerful reminder to individuals across the nation that incorporating physical fitness and exercise into our daily routines is not only beneficial for our personal well-being but also plays a crucial role in building a strong and capable military force.
The Guards Brigade Sports Week promises to be a thrilling and action-packed gathering, with a wide range of sporting activities planned for the duration of the event. Participants will have the chance to showcase their athleticism, dedication, and competitive spirit in sports such as athletics, football, basketball, and more.
General Aiyenigba appreciated the Commander Guards Brigade and his team of officers for putting together the event and further urged the Participants to maintain high spirits of sportsmanship to fulfill the essence of the game.
General Ayenigba wished the competitors good outing as they engage in the competition.
In his remarks, the Commander Guards Brigade, Colonel Adebisi Olusegun Onasanya, emphasized the significance of the event as part of the Brigade’s end-of-year festivities.
He noted that the primary objectives of the competition are to unite personnel, unearth potential sports stars, and ensure the physical fitness of the troops, all in alignment with the training program established by the Headquarters Nigerian Army and Guards Brigade.
Colonel Onasanya reiterated that the competition serves as a pivotal component in fulfilling the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, which aims to transform the Nigerian Army into a proficient, well-equipped, and highly motivated force capable of fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.
Furthermore, he emphasized that the competition will be utilized as an avenue to assess the troops’ confidence, fostering team spirit and cooperation among the Brigade’s personnel.
The participating teams hail from various units under the Brigade, including the 7th Guards Battalion, 102nd Guards Battalion, 176th Guards Battalion, 177th Guards Battalion, and the Guards Brigade Garrison. Over the course of four thrilling days, spectators can anticipate captivating sporting activities such as football, Tug of War, volleyball, and a variety of field and track games.
The Flagg off ceremony was graced by the presence of esteemed members of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), Guards Brigade Chapter, led by the Zonal Coordinator, Mrs. Adenike Ololade Onasanya. The event has attracted the attention of Unit Commanders, Staff Officers of the Brigade, as well as sports enthusiasts, all eagerly anticipating the unfolding of this remarkable sporting extravaganza.
The Guards Brigade Sports Week not only embodies the spirit of athleticism and healthy competition but also represents a platform for fostering fitness, teamwork, and talent within the Nigerian Army. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of sporting disciplines, this event embodies the Army’s commitment to nurturing the physical well-being and camaraderie of its troops, further solidifying its position as a force to be reckoned with.