Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, has praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for their hard work in restoring peace and protecting lives and property across the state.
The governor made this known during the West African Social Activities (WASA) festival organised by TRADOC Nigerian Army in Minna, the Niger State capital.
Governor Bago described the day as special and said WASA is not only a cultural celebration, but also a way to bring the military and the public closer together.
He explained that WASA, which means “play” in Hausa, helps to strengthen the relationship between the Armed Forces and the people and makes the military more friendly and accessible.
The governor congratulated the Commander of TRADOC, Major General Peter Malla, for organising the event despite the security challenges in the country.
Governor Bago also said the event came shortly after the Armed Forces Emblem Launch and the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, which is held every year to honour soldiers who died while defending the nation.He thanked the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sacrifices, especially in Niger State, where security has improved in many areas.
According to Bago, places like Shiroro, which were once unsafe to visit, are now peaceful because of the efforts of the military and other security agencies.
The governor assured the Armed Forces of the state government’s continued support and cooperation to ensure lasting peace in Niger State and Nigeria as a whole.
As a sign of appreciation, the Niger State Government announced a donation of 50 million to support the organiser of the WASA event.
Governor Bago said the money was meant to support the families of soldiers and encourage the Armed Forces to continue their good work.
Speaking at the event, the Commander of TRADOC, Major General Peter Malla, thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, for supporting training and the welfare of troops.
He assured the people of Niger State that the Nigerian Army will continue to respect human rights, defend the constitution and work with other security agencies to maintain peace.
Major General Malla also praised the soldiers for their dedication and thanked their families for supporting them at home while they serve the nation.
The event ended with a pledge by the Nigerian Army to continue working with the Niger State Government and other stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and security in the state.
The WASA celebration is a long-standing military tradition that started during the time of the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF). It was created to allow soldiers take part in cultural festivals and to promote unity and teamwork in the Army.
Today, WASA allows soldiers and their families to come together in a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate and display Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
The programme featured cultural dances from different ethnic groups, which showed the spirit of unity within the Nigerian Army.
