Army vows to sustain peace, security in South East

From Jude Chinedu, Enugu

The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safety and security for socio-economic activities to thrive across the South East, as it hosted the 2025 West Africa Social Activities (WASA) at the Abakpa Military Cantonment Parade Ground, Enugu, Enugu State.

Speaking at the colourful event, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. OA Fadairo, said the Army remained resolute in sustaining peace and stability in the region, despite the complex security environment confronting the country.

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

He noted that WASA, a long-standing military tradition dating back to the era of the West African Frontier Force in 1897, had continued to serve as a platform for unity, resilience and mutual understanding among troops and their families.

“Our gathering here today is a continuity of this agelong tradition. It reinforces unity, resilience and mutual understanding within our operating environment, with emphasis on family inclusion, cultural sensitivity, moral development and civil–military relations,” he said.

The GOC commended troops and commanders for their resilience in the field, saying their efforts had yielded notable successes in ongoing operations, particularly under the Operation Udoka joint theatre.

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

Fadairo also appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. W. Shaibu, for his strategic guidance and support, as well as Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, represented by the Deputy Governor, Ifeanyi Ossai, for the state’s partnership with the military.

In his remarks, Ossai praised the Armed Forces for their sacrifices and dedication to protecting lives and property in the state and beyond.

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

He stressed that the burden of military service was not borne by soldiers alone, but also by their families.

“Today is not just about the men and women in uniform that we send on harm’s way; it is also about their families… kids who grow up without their parents, women who panic when we knock on the door fearing the worst. For me, it is to thank you on behalf of a grateful state for the sacrifices you continue to make.

“As a government, it is not hidden that we have a warm and healthy relationship with security agencies in our state, particularly the Army, Police, Air Force, DSS and Civil Defence. We appreciate the role, the sacrifice and all you have continued to do,” he said.

The event featured cultural displays, music, sports and communal feasting, drawing participation from military families, traditional rulers, heads of security agencies, and other dignitaries.