The Nigerian Army on January 3, 2025, celebrated the West African Social Activities, WASA, 2025 at the Obinze Barracks Parade Ground, Imo State.
The Army disclosed this in a statement signed by Major Hashimu Sa’ad Abdullahi, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 34 Artillery Brigade, Owerri.
The statement said the event, organised by the Headquarters 34 Artillery Brigade, was held to mark the end of training activities and promote unity, cultural integration and civil–military relations.
It noted that the Special Guest of Honour, Air Commodore D.E. Bello, Commander 511 Quick Response Group, Owerri, described the Nigerian Army as a strong unifying institution that brings together people of diverse cultures and backgrounds in service to the nation.
According to the statement, Air Commodore Bello urged officers and soldiers to remain professional, disciplined and committed to their constitutional responsibilities.
The statement further quoted the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade and Land Component Commander Operation UDOKA, Major General I.M. Abbas, as explaining that WASA is an annual Nigerian Army tradition designed to strengthen unity and interaction with host communities.
It added that the Brigade remains actively involved in addressing contemporary security challenges in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy, with support from families, host communities and stakeholders.
The statement said the event attracted representatives of the Imo State Government, security agencies, traditional rulers and other dignitaries, while highlights included cultural displays, the beating of the retreat and the lighting of the bonfire.
