…As Army celebrates WASA in Lagos
The Special Guest of Honour at the Year 2024 combined West African Social Activities (WASA) for Headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA), NA Engineers, and 9 Brigade NA and Lagos State Governor, His Excellency Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has lauded troops of the NA for their efforts in maintaining peace and security in the state.
According to the Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, “the Governor, while acknowledging the constitutional role of the NA in creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive in Lagos, promised his administration’s continuous support, collaboration, and partnership with the NA.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Sanwo-Olu commended troops of the NA for their commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and properties in the state. He expressed appreciation to the NA for the good partnership with the Lagos State Government, maintaining that it has contributed to the growth of the state’s economy. He thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his leadership and support to 81 Division NA to operate effectively, making Lagos State one of the safest in the country.
Declaring the Year 2024 WASA opened, the Commander Corps of Engineers, Major General Philip Eromosele, described the event as a significant atmosphere that promotes regimentation and unity among personnel and their families. He appreciated the COAS for his support and guidance, disclosing that the Corps of Engineers recorded significant achievements in the year 2024.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division NA, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, stated that WASA is a tradition in the Army which officially draws down the curtain on training activities of the preceding year, promoting regimentation and strengthening the bond of unity among personnel and their families as well as civilian friends. General Mijinyawa also thanked the COAS for his support, direction, and guidance, as well as approving required resources for all operational and training activities.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Commander, 81 Division Garrison, who was also the Chairman Organising Committee for the event, Brigadier General Hassan Bukar expressed appreciation to the Governor and dignitaries for gracing the occasion.
The event featured presentation of awards to deserving soldiers who distinguished themselves operationally and administratively in 2024, display of Nigerian cultural and traditional cuisines, attires, dances, and tug-of-war contest. The event was attended by senior officers, heads of security agencies in the state, captains of industries, friends, and well wishers, among others. The climax of the Year 2024 WASA was the beating of the retreat and lighting of the bonfire by the Special Guest of Honour.