Oil Theft: Nigerian Army Boosts Troops’ Amphibious Capabilities in N’Delta
The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt has launched a two-day combat swimming contest to enhance the swimming skills of soldiers engaged in illegal bunkering and amphibious operations in the Niger Delta creeks.
The training aims to equip troops with essential water-related skills to navigate riverine environments effectively.
Maj.-Gen. Jamaal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the division, said the training is crucial due to the dynamism of modern warfare and the need to secure national infrastructures in the South South region.
He said sixty-seven soldiers from various formations and units under the division are participating in the exercise, which includes events like 50m backstroke, butterfly, freestyle, and breaststroke.
He said the training aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy of having well-trained and well-equipped soldiers ready for action.
The competition will foster a spirit of sportsmanship and fair play among participants, ultimately enhancing the army’s amphibious capabilities in the region.
Abdussalam highlighted the evolution of soldering over the years following rising emerging security threats in Nigeria and globally.
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“The dynamism and ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare has made it crucial for troops to possess the capability to navigate and thrive in riverine environments.
“As the guardians of Nigeria’s most vital assets in the South South region, we are tasked to secure our national infrastructures and ensure the seamless flow of strategic operations.
“Whether it is the swift crossing of raging rivers, rescuing of distressed comrades, or executing amphibious assaults, soldiers’ mastery of water-related skills will enhance our operations,” he noted.
The GOC urged participants to exhibit their best performance and imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play throughout the competition.
In hid remarks ,Brig.-Gen. Eddie Effiong, the Commander of 6 Division Garrison, said that 67 soldiers, comprising 55 males and 12 females from various formations and units under the division would participate in the exercise.
“These are 2 Brigade in Uyo, 6 Division Garrison in Port Harcourt, 16 Brigade in Yenagoa, and 63 Brigade in Asaba, Delta.
“The swimmers will showcase their skills in various swimming techniques like 50m backstroke, 50m butterfly, 50m freestyle and 50m breaststroke, among others.
“Although this is a competition, its primary goal is to enable troops to hone their skills and knowledge of water”, he said.
By PRNigeria
