The 2 Division Inter-Brigade Corporals and Below Competition 2026 has commenced at the Nigerian Army Cantonment, Ekehuan Barracks, Benin City, Edo State, with 4 Brigade serving as host.
The week-long combat-focused exercise, which began on Monday, April 20, 2026, brings together junior soldiers from formations under the 2 Division of the Nigerian Army to test and sharpen their operational capabilities.
In his welcome address, the Commander, 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, said the competition comes at a critical time as the Nigerian Army continues to confront evolving security challenges across the country.
Balogun explained that the exercise is designed to enhance combat proficiency, leadership qualities, teamwork, endurance, and organisational skills among corporals and junior ranks, while also fostering esprit de corps.
He noted that events lined up for the competition include drill, weapon handling and firing, combat cross-country and obstacle crossing, map reading, and combat swimming. 
Declaring the competition open, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, represented by the Commander, 32 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Justin Ifeanyi, urged participants to maintain professionalism and discipline throughout the exercise.
He assured that credible umpires and judges had been appointed to ensure fairness, stressing that no team would be favoured or disadvantaged. He added that adequate arrangements had been put in place to guarantee a smooth and hitch-free competition.
The GOC also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for providing the necessary resources for the event and appreciated the Army Headquarters Department of Army Training for its continued support in improving the annual competition.
Participating formations include 4 Brigade, 12 Brigade, 32 Artillery Brigade, 22 Armoured Brigade, 42/52 Engineers and Signals Brigade, and 2 Division Garrison.
The opening ceremony attracted heads of security agencies in Edo State and other dignitaries. Highlights of the first day included drill competitions, presentation of souvenirs, and group photographs.