By Okosun Dennis
As the 81 Division, Nigerian Army celebrated its West African Social Activities (WASA), the Commandant, Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Air Vice Marshal IG Lubo has described it as “an event that enhances regimentation and promotes family values in the army.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the occasion on Saturday which was held at the 65 Battalion, Parade Ground, Bonny Cantonment, said that the organization and conduct of the event have gone a long way in sustaining one of the age-long traditions of the Nigerian Army and by extension improving Civil-Military Relations.
On the security challenges confronting the nation, AVM Lubo explained that everyone has a role to play to improve the level of insecurity.
Therefore, “The Nigerian Army has been actively involved in the fight against all forms of insecurity and has made substantial gains in the fight through its dedication, commitment, sacrifices and synergy with other security agencies.
He commended the Nigerian Army and its personnel for their unrelenting collaborative efforts with members of other security agencies which had led to the successes recorded in the various internal security operations particularly in Lagos and across the country.
AVM Lubo enjoined officers and soldiers not to rest in their oars but to continue to work assiduously with other agencies towards maintaining and improving the security situation in the country.
On his part as the Chief host, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division, Nigerian Army (NA) Maj-Gen. Lawrence Fejokwu noted that WASA is an annual event which reflects the customs and traditions of the Nigerian Army (NA).
Explaining the efficacy of the social event which dates back to the colonial era, noted that, it is meant to “strengthen social relationships among officers, soldiers and their families through cultural displays, musical performances and other regimental activities.
“It is also an avenue for informal social interaction and forum for the barracks communities to showcase the rich and diversified cultural heritage of our great nation within the barracks.
As an event that marks the end of tedious and eventful training, it also heralds the beginning of a new year.
“The 2021 training activities, though challenging was very interesting giving that all the various training exercises scheduled were successfully held with positive gains.
The highpoint according to Gen Fejokwu was the successful Field Training Exercise tagged: “Exercise STILL WATER” which helped at curtailing criminal activities and other heinous crimes within the 81 Division Area of Responsibility and interacted with host communities.
The GOC also paid tributes to the fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice to keep Nigeria one.
He observed that he would be living 81 Division very soon to his new place of deployment as conveyed in the last postings by the NA. As a result, he admonished the troops to remain committed to the discharge of their collective responsibilities of ensuring peace and stability across the country.
While appreciating the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, he noted that his continued efforts in repositioning the Nigerian Army through his vision cannot be overemphasized.
Adding glamour to the WASA were multifarious cultural and traditional displays which reflected the rich diversity of the country.
Prizes and awards were given to deserving soldiers who had distinguished themselves in character, dressing and hard-working. Besides, there were presentations of souvenirs to some traditional rulers present and the Defence Correspondence of The Sun newspaper, Philip Nwosu for his consistency in his reportage of Nigerian Army affairs.
The well-attended event by families of officers and soldiers, friends and well-wishers, had other side attractions especially the victory of the Barrack Magajiyas over Female Soldiers in the Tug of War contest; cultural displays of masquerade; dances by various cultural troupes and the campfire night.
https://any.peopleandpowermag.com/wasa-promotes-familiy-values-avm-lubo-as-81-div-celebrates-with-pomps-ceremonies/
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