By Onwe wisdom | Pan Afric Reporters
Owerri, Imo State
The Headquarters 34 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army on Friday, 3 January 2025, held the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 at the Obinze Barracks Parade Ground, Imo State, celebrating troops’ commitment, professionalism, and the Army’s enduring tradition of unity through cultural diversity.
Delivering remarks as Special Guest of Honour, the Commander 511 Quick Response Group (QRG), Owerri, Air Commodore DE Bello, according to a media report e-signed by Assistant Director, Army Public Relations 34 Artillery Brigade, Owerri, Hashimu Sa’ad Abdullahi Major, described the Nigerian Army as a powerful symbol of national cohesion. He noted that the cultural displays at the event underscored the Army’s role in uniting Nigerians across ethnic and cultural lines.
“The cultural displays and activities witnessed today further demonstrate that the Nigerian Army remains a strong unifying institution, bringing together diverse cultures and backgrounds in service to one nation and one purpose,” Air Commodore Bello said.
He urged officers and soldiers of the Brigade to sustain high standards of conduct, emphasizing discipline, loyalty, and professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
“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,” he added.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade and Land Component Commander, Operation UDOKA, Major General IM Abbas, explained that WASA is an annual Nigerian Army tradition marking the end of training activities while promoting unity, cultural integration, and civil–military relations.
Tracing the history of the celebration, Major General Abbas recalled that the Nigerian Army originated from the West African Frontier Force (WAFF) of the early 1900s, whose gallantry in major campaigns, including the First World War (1914–1918), earned recognition and the privilege of celebrating diverse cultures. He said the event was designed to showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and provide an avenue for officers, soldiers, their families, and host communities to interact and strengthen mutual understanding.
He further 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 sustained support from families and well-wishers.
Major General Abbas expressed appreciation to the Imo State Government; the General Officer Commanding 82 Division and Commander Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA (OPUK), Major General OA Fadairo; as well as traditional rulers and community leaders for their collaboration and support, which he said were vital to sustaining morale and enhancing operational effectiveness within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
The colourful event attracted representatives of the Imo State Government, sister security agencies, His Royal Highness Dr. EC Okeke, the Eze Imo, and Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu (Papilo), among other distinguished guests.
Highlights of the celebration included the presentation of souvenirs, the ceremonial Beating of the Retreat, and the lighting of the bonfire, which marked the grand finale of WASA 2025.
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