Army Reaffirms Commitment to Security in South East

The Nigerian Army has reiterated its resolve to ensure a safe and secure environment for socio-economic activities and sustainable development across the South East region.

The assurance was given on Saturday by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Oluremi Fadairo, during the 2025 West Africa Social Activities (WASA) celebration held at the Abakpa Military Cantonment Parade Ground in Enugu.

Major General Fadairo said troops of the division remain steadfast in protecting lives and property, stressing that security remains critical to development in the region.

“Be rest assured of the commitment of the officers and men of this Division to ensuring the safety and security necessary for socio-economic activities and development to thrive within the South East,” he said.

He commended commanders and troops under his command for what he described as sustained resilience and notable operational successes.

“I must commend my indefatigable formations, units’ commanders and troops for their continued resilience in the field, which has yielded significant successes. I urge you all to sustain the tempo as we continue to discharge our constitutional responsibilities,” Fadairo added.

Importance of WASA Tradition

The GOC explained that the West Africa Social Activities is a longstanding military tradition aimed at fostering unity, cohesion and cultural understanding within the Nigerian Army, despite the pressures of modern military operations.

According to him, WASA is observed annually across army units and formations, providing a platform to strengthen unity, resilience and mutual understanding, with emphasis on family inclusion, cultural sensitivity, moral development and improved civil-military relations.

Tracing its origins to the era of the West African Frontier Force, Fadairo noted that early soldiers from present-day Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and The Gambia relied on communal activities such as music, sports, storytelling and shared meals to build trust and cohesion.

“Those interactions laid the foundation for a shared West African military culture built on communal values and mutual respect,” he said.

Appreciation to Stakeholders

Fadairo expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for providing strategic leadership and resources for the event. He also thanked the Enugu State Government for its continued partnership on security matters.

“My appreciation goes to the Enugu State Governor, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, for being a reliable partner in our joint pursuit of national security objectives,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Peter Mbah, the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ossai, commended the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in safeguarding lives and property.

“On behalf of a grateful state, I want to say thank you to the Army, the Air Force and the Navy for the incredible work you have done and continue to do to protect us,” Ossai said.

He emphasised that the sacrifices made by military families should also be recognised.

“Today is not just about the men and women in uniform who go into harm’s way, but also about their families who stay at home while they defend us,” he added.

Ossai described the relationship between the Enugu State Government and security agencies as cordial and productive, noting strong collaboration with the Army, Police, Air Force, DSS, Navy and NSCDC.

Commending the organisation of the event, he said, “What we have seen today is exceptional—well organised, disciplined and well orchestrated.”

Event Highlights

Highlights of the WASA celebration included cultural dance performances by the Enugu State Cultural Troupe and the Amata-Mgbowo Atilogwu Cultural Troupe, as well as a cooking competition involving various departments and units of the 82 Division.

The event was attended by senior military officers, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other dignitaries.