A traditional ruler in Kogi state, the Attah Igala and Chairman of the Traditional Council of Chiefs, Mathew Alaji Ogwuche-Akpa II, has commended the Nigerian Army for its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty.
He made the remarks while speaking at the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 of the Nigerian Army, held at the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army in Lokoja.
Represented by the Obaje-adaka Attah Igala, His Royal Highness Chief Shaibu Musa Okolilo, the Attah Igala expressed satisfaction with the efforts of the Army and other security agencies in combating insecurity. He noted that many soldiers have laid down their lives for the nation’s survival, urging Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of nationalism exemplified by the Army.
The Attah Igala emphasised the importance of the annual WASA programme as a social event for the Army to unwind, noting that “work and no play affects morale.”
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He commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for boosting the morale of the Nigerian Army in its fight against insurgency, observing that the renewed efforts to tackle insecurity are yielding positive results.
He also praised the service chiefs, brigade commanders, and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for their contributions in addressing insecurity in the state. Additionally, he commended members of the Kogi State Traditional Council of Chiefs, including the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land, the Obaro of Kabba, and the Ohimege Igu of Kotonkarfe, for maintaining peace in their communities.
In a welcome address, the Commander of 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, said the annual West African Social Activities, known as WASA, is a unique social event that unites officers and men of the Nigerian Army, as well as their families and host communities, to promote cohesion, unity, and cultural exchange
“The Nigerian Army draws its strength from the diversity of its people. Within our barracks community, we have an extraordinary blend of cultures, languages, and traditions, all coexisting in unity and mutual respect.
“WASA provides us with the opportunity to showcase this diversity, strengthen our bonds, and remind ourselves that beyond our uniforms, we remain one family united by service to our nation. This occasion also allows us to reflect on the year gone by,” General Sidi noted.
The Governor of Kogi State, North Central Nigeria, Ahmed Usman Ododo, who was the special guest of honour, commended the Army for protecting the nation against insurgency and banditry in the face of daunting security challenges, emphasising that military personnel deserve recreational activities such as the West African Social Activities.
“It is therefore essential that troops are given the opportunity to unwind, share in the joy of the season, and celebrate the achievements of the year with their loved ones. The WASA celebration remains the perfect avenue to achieve this, marking a befitting conclusion to the year’s activities.
“The WASA, an enduring cultural legacy that dates back to the era of the West African Frontier Force, fosters a sense of belonging among officers, soldiers, and their dependents, and also strengthens the relationship between the barracks community and its host environment.”
The event featured cultural performances, award presentations, and a call to action for Nigerians to support the Army’s efforts in safeguarding the nation.
The Nigerian Army has recorded significant successes in its fight against insecurity, including the rescue of over 1,000 kidnapped victims and the recovery of arms and ammunition.