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2024 WASA event: GOC lauds 32 Artillery Brigade over dedication

By Tola Gbadamosi

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Obinna Onubogu, has commended the officers and soldiers of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, for their perseverance and dedication to duty.

The GOC made this remark during the recently concluded 2024 West African Social Activities (WASA) held at the football pitch of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure.

He described WASA as an annual Nigerian Army social event that dates back to the Second World War, providing a platform for officers, troops, and their families, as well as friends, to interact freely and foster camaraderie.

“It is conducted to mark the end of a successful training year and the beginning of another. The event also serves as an avenue for officers, soldiers, their families, and well-wishers to relax in a conducive atmosphere, celebrate, and enjoy cultural displays from various ethnic groups across the country,” the GOC stated.

Major General Onubogu further highlighted the synergy between the Brigade and other agencies, saying: “I commend the efforts made by the Brigade to ensure peaceful coexistence with host communities and the general public.

“This has boosted public confidence and ensured the safety of lives and property in Ondo and Ekiti states.”

In his remarks, the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Major General John Lar, expressed gratitude to attendees for honouring the invitation.

“We are sincerely grateful for your presence.

WASA is an age-long tradition that originated from the West African Frontier Force, the precursor of the Nigerian Army.

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“The event is held annually in all Army formations to celebrate the successful completion of training and operational activities for the year and usher in a new training cycle.

“WASA features rich cultural performances and provides an avenue for social interaction and relaxation among the barracks community and invited guests, fostering civil-military cooperation.

“Although initially scheduled for December 2024, this year’s event was postponed due to operational engagements.

“Despite challenges, 2024 was a successful and eventful year in terms of training and operational achievements. We thank Almighty God for His guidance and blessings,” he added.

Major General Lar acknowledged the immense support of the Ondo and Ekiti State Governments, as well as the cooperation of sister agencies, emphasising the need for continued inter-agency collaboration to tackle contemporary security challenges.

“No single security agency can operate in isolation. We need a whole-of-society approach, involving states, local governments, communities, and traditional and religious leaders, to secure our country.

“I urge all stakeholders to synergise efforts to achieve a safe and secure 2025,” he said.

The Commander assured the people of Ondo and Ekiti states that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, would consolidate on the gains of the previous year to provide a secure environment for social and economic activities to thrive.

He also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General O.O. Oluyede, for logistical and strategic support, and acknowledged the efforts of the officers and soldiers of the Brigade for their professional conduct throughout 2024.

“Let me commend our gallant officers and soldiers for their dedication.

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“Do not rest on your oars as we strive to make 2025 even more successful. I also want to recognise our fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in the defence of our nation. May their souls rest in perfect peace.

“To our wives and families, thank you for holding the home front as we focus on defending our nation.

“To our partners in sister security agencies, we appreciate your cooperation in 2024 and look forward to even greater collaboration in 2025,” he said.

The event featured a variety of cultural performances, including competitive cultural dances and displays showcasing the rich heritage of the country.

A tug-of-war competition between female soldiers and soldiers’ wives added excitement, ending in a draw due to time constraints as the traditional retreat ceremony, involving the lowering of flags, was observed at 6 p.m.

Representatives of all security agencies from Ondo and Ekiti states, as well as officials from both state governments, graced the occasion.

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