The Headquarters of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, celebrated its End-of-The-Year West African Social Activities (WASA) 2022 at Chari Maigumeri Cantonment, Lokoja.
Speaking at the event, Brig. Gen. Isang Akpaumontia, the Commander of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, expressed his delight over the event and thanked the distinguished invited guests for honoring their invitation despite the short notice.
According to the Commander, the WASA tradition dates back to the era of the West African Frontier Forces, which served as the nucleus of the modern-day Nigerian Army.
The General noted that WASA was initially held only when the Army achieved significant victories in battle but eventually became an annual event.
He explained that WASA is a custom and tradition of the Nigerian Army, providing officers, soldiers, and their families an opportunity to interact and socialize with the larger community in a relaxed atmosphere to mark the end of the year’s activities.
The commander emphasized that this year’s WASA was unique as it was the maiden social activities for the Brigade and also an opportunity to honor officers and soldiers who distinguished themselves in various fields and activities since the Brigade’s inception.
The commander commended the organizing committee for their hard work in putting together a variety of cultural displays to be showcased during the event.
“I am glad to observe that the officers, men, and their families are in tune with the rich cultures for which our great Nigeria is known.
“For our civilian guests, I urge you to sit back, relax, and enjoy yourselves. This will undoubtedly correct the wrong notion that most military personnel forget their roots immediately upon joining the Nigerian Army because it is not true,” he said.
In his remarks, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, the State Governor and the Special Guest of Honor, said the WASA event would continue to foster unity between the Nigerian Army and society.
The governor, represented by the State Security Adviser, Commodore Jerry Omdara (rtd), commended the Nigerian Army for their selfless sacrifices in defending and protecting the territorial integrity of Nigeria.
Bello urged the officers and soldiers to always be conscious of their behavior within and outside the barracks, as their actions would undoubtedly affect the image of the Nigerian Army as a whole.
The governor assured the Nigerian Army and other security agencies of his continuous support to ensure the safety of lives and property before, during, and after the November 11 governorship election in the state.
In his vote of thanks, Lt. Col. M.E. Ibiam, the Garrison Commander and Chairman of the WASA 2022 Committee, expressed gratitude to the commander, senior officers, and members of the committee for their support in making WASA 2022 a huge success.
Lt. Col. Ibian also appreciated the governor and all other guests for honoring their invitation to grace the occasion.
Representatives from security agencies such as the Nigerian Navy (NNS Lugard), Police, Director of State Security Service (DSS), and Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) were all in attendance.
The highlights of the event included cultural dances by various ethnic groups such as Ebira, Igbo, Igala, Hausa, and Yoruba.
Other activities included a children’s dance competition, tug of war, unarmed combat display by soldiers, award presentations to soldiers, and gifts to dignitaries.
MC Universe, a popular comedian and entertainer in Lokoja, was also present to entertain the people and bring humor to the event.
The event concluded with the lighting of a bonfire by the special guest of honor and the commander.
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