From Molly Kilete, Abuja
Former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor (Retired), has commended officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their sacrifices and dedication in keeping the country united and urged them to remain vigilant and focused on their constitutional duties.
Irabor also charged them to remain steadfast in upholding their constitutional responsibilities and democratic values while synergizing with other security agencies to address the nation’s security challenges.
The former CDS, gave the charge during the Army Headquarters Departments and Commands West African Social Activities (WASA) 2024 held at the Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.
The former CDS, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the occasion, highlighted the richness and cultural diversity of Nigerian soldiers which he described as source of strength for effectiveness.
Gen. Iraboh, while noting that the Nigerian army has a long history of heritage and achievements with documented victories in both World Wars, peacekeeping operations, and internal security operations across the country, said that the Army has made significant contributions to national growth and development, beyond their traditional defence and security duties through the dedication and sacrifices of military personnel, some of whom have paid the supreme price through service to the nation.
He urged the Army to continue synergizing with other security agencies, respect rules of law, and subordinate to civil authority.
The former CDS commemorate with the officers and soldiers of the Army and urged them to remain focus as the nation looks upto the NA to keep upholding democratic values.
Earlier In his address, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede emphasized the significance of WASA as a platform to celebrate national heritage and promote unity, camaraderie and esprit de corps among personnel and their families. The COAS stated further that the event also avails the command the opportunity to thank God and appreciate personnel for their individual and collective contributions peace and security of the citizens.
The COAS posited that WASA showcases the Nigerian Army’s diverse ethnic heritage, rich cultural traditions, extensive geographical representation, and huge expectations of Nigerians in NA’s commitment to addressing security challenges.
The Army Chief appreciated the continued support and cooperation of other security and sister agencies in the execution of various operations, assuring that the NA will continue to foster stronger partnerships to enhance collective capacity to address the nation’s security challenges.
The Army Chief further expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and strategic guidance to the Nigerian Army.
Also speaking, Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Koko Isoni recalled the tradition of WASA dated back to the era of the second World War, during which Officers, soldiers and their families come together to socialize in a relaxed mood to mark the end of the year’s activities.
He affirmed that the event also serves as a vehicle to enhance espirit de corps and the spirit of brotherliness within the NA.
The WASA is an annual event that brings together military personnel and their families to promote unity, camaraderie, and esprit de corps.
This year’s event was marked by various activities including Tug of War, Female Soldiers Bike Display, Band display, presentation of awards, Mega Suya/Nigerian Tradition Cuisine Competition, cultural performances showcasing Nigeria cultural diversity and lightening of burn fire by the SGoH.