By Linus Aleke
The Governor of Plateau State, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong has applauded the selfless sacrifices of troops of the Nigerian Army (NA) in curtailing terrorism and other security threats in the country, particularly on the Plateau.
Gov Lalong gave this commendation on Monday while declaring the Nigerian Army Small Arms Championship (NASAC) 2022 open at the 3 Division Small Arms Shooting Range in Miango, Jos, Plateau State.
The Governor, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony of the championship, noted that personnel of the NA has over time demonstrated the requisite skills and competencies necessary to enhance the nation’s security.
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Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu in a statement said the Governor added that the NA has been professional in addressing cases of insecurity, where lives and property were threatened.
Governor Lalong observed that the shooting competition will present a veritable avenue for the participants to discover their hidden potentials, as well as sharpen their shooting skills, which he maintained are essential to enhance ongoing operations of the Nigerian Army.
Lalong also enjoined the participants to leverage on opportunities provided by the Championship to perfect the impressive work the NA is doing across the country.
He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, for finding Plateau state worthy of hosting one of the significant events of the Nigerian Army.
Earlier, in his welcome remarks, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, who also doubles as Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Ibrahim Ali, thanked the COAS for approving the upgrading of 3 Division Small Arms shooting Range, Miango.
He said the Championship will assist in improving troops’ proficiency in weapon handling.
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Gen Ali also disclosed that the exercise is in furtherance of the actualization of COAS’ vision for the Army.
The GOC expressed gratitude to the people and Government of Plateau State for their untiring support to 3 Division, adding, that the Miango range will remain a permanent venue for NA Small Arms Championship in the future.
Presenting a souvenir to the Special Guest of Honour, the COAS Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya, represented by the Commander Training and Doctrine Command, Major General Stevenson Olabanji, urged the participants to exhibit the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the week long event.
