The Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army has concluded it’s annual training exercise with the climbing of Aso Rock.
Civilians also took part in reaching the peak of the 1,300 feet monolith.
The Aso Rock climb is a yearly ritual for the Nigerian Army Guards Brigade.
Climbing Aso Rock is the Grand Finale of the brigade’s training exercise.
Civilians including children also join up with troops for the exercise.
At the blast of the whistle, everyone sets out for the climb.
Climbing Aso Rock is a prestigious exercise for the Guards Brigade saddled with the responsibility of protecting the President and commander in chief of the Armed forces of the country.
Aso Rock is a large outcrop of granitic rock located on the outskirts of Asokoro in Abuja.
It rises approximately 400 meters above sea level and serves as a significant symbol of Nigeria’s government and history.
This plateau is home to an Agrarian Gbagyi village.
We were told that the locals go downhill daily to sell their farm produce.
One hour into the climb, we arrive at the foothill of the granitic rock.
This is the most difficult phase of the climb, due to the steep nature of the rock.
At this point, great care and perseverance are required. Any mistake could be fatal.
Getting to the peak of Aso rock isn’t for the faint hearted.
Surmounting the rock creates a sense of fulfilment among the climbers.
The descent is nearly as tasking as the climb, Any mistake could be fatal.
After nearly 2 hours of strenuous descent, the climbers arrive at the starting point.
Climbing Aso Rock is no mean feat. But for the soldiers, it’s a task that must be accomplished yearly.
