The Headquarters of the Nigerian Army’s 34 Artillery Brigade on January 3 celebrated the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 at the Obinze Barracks Parade Ground in Imo State, as part of activities marking the end of the training year and promoting unity within the force.
Speaking at the event, the Special Guest of Honour, Air Commodore D.E. Bello, Commander 511 Quick Response Group (QRG), Owerri, described the Nigerian Army as a strong unifying institution that continues to bring together Nigerians of diverse cultures and backgrounds in service to the nation.
According to him, the cultural displays and activities showcased during the celebration reflected the Army’s enduring role in fostering national cohesion. He urged officers and soldiers of the Brigade to remain professional, disciplined and committed to duty.
“As you celebrate WASA 2025, I encourage you to remain steadfast, disciplined and committed to excellence. Continue to uphold the core values of professionalism, loyalty and respect for civil authority in the discharge of your constitutional responsibilities,” Air Commodore Bello said.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade and Land Component Commander, Operation UDOKA, Major General I.M. Abbas, explained that WASA is an annual Nigerian Army tradition observed to mark the end of training activities while promoting unity, cultural integration and civil–military relations.
Major General Abbas recalled that the Nigerian Army traces its roots to the West African Frontier Force (WAFF) of the early 1900s, whose gallantry in major campaigns, including the First World War, earned recognition and the privilege to celebrate cultural diversity within the military. He said the event was designed to showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and provide a platform for officers, soldiers, their families and host communities to interact and strengthen mutual understanding.
He noted that in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy of building a professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force, the 34 Artillery Brigade has remained actively engaged in addressing contemporary security challenges, with the support of families and well-wishers.
The Brigade Commander expressed appreciation to the Imo State Government, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division and Commander Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, Major General O.A. Fadairo, as well as traditional rulers and community leaders, for their cooperation and support, which he said were vital to sustaining troop morale and enhancing operational effectiveness within the Brigade’s area of responsibility.
Dignitaries at the event included representatives of the Imo State Government, various security agencies, His Royal Highness Dr. E.C. Okeke, the Eze Imo, and Nigerian football legend, Nwankwo Kanu, among other distinguished guests.
Highlights of the celebration included cultural performances, presentation of souvenirs, the ceremonial Beating of the Retreat and the lighting of the bonfire, which marked the climax of the WASA 2025 festivities.
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