By Nkechi Eze
The Headquarters 34 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army on 3 January 2025 held the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 at the Obinze Barracks Parade Ground in Imo State, as officers and soldiers came together to celebrate culture, unity and professional commitment.
The event, according to a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 34 Artillery Brigade, Owerri, Major Hashimu Sa’ad Abdullahi, attracted senior military officers, government representatives, traditional rulers and other distinguished guests.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Special Guest of Honour, the Commander 511 Quick Response Group, Owerri, Air Commodore D. E. Bello, described the Nigerian Army as a strong unifying institution that continues to bring together people of diverse cultures and backgrounds in service to the nation. He said the various cultural displays and activities showcased during the celebration reflected the Army’s enduring role as a symbol of national cohesion.
“The cultural displays and activities witnessed today further demonstrate that the Nigerian Army remains a strong unifying institution, bringing together diverse cultures and backgrounds in service to one nation and one purpose,” Air Commodore Bello stated.
He urged officers and soldiers of the Brigade to remain professional and committed to duty, stressing that discipline, loyalty and respect for civil authority are fundamental to the effective discharge of their constitutional responsibilities. “As you celebrate WASA 2025, I encourage you to remain steadfast, disciplined, and committed to excellence. Continue to uphold the core values of professionalism, loyalty, and respect for civil authority,” he added.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade and Land Component Commander, Operation UDOKA, Major General I. M. Abbas, explained that WASA is an annual Nigerian Army tradition held to mark the end of training activities, while also promoting unity, cultural integration and cordial civil–military relations. He recalled that the Nigerian Army traces its origin to the West African Frontier Force of the early 1900s, whose gallantry in major campaigns, including the First World War between 1914 and 1918, earned recognition and the privilege to celebrate their diverse cultures.
Major General Abbas noted that the celebration was designed to showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and provide an opportunity for officers, soldiers, their families and members of host communities to interact and strengthen mutual understanding. He stated that in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy of building a professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force, the 34 Artillery Brigade has remained actively engaged in addressing contemporary security challenges, with sustained support from families and well-wishers.
He expressed appreciation to the Imo State Government, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division and Commander Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDOKA, Major General O. A. Fadairo, as well as traditional rulers and community leaders within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility, describing their collaboration as vital to sustaining morale and enhancing operational effectiveness.
The event was attended by representatives of the Imo State Government, various security agencies, His Royal Highness Dr E. C. Okeke, the Eze Imo, and Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu, popularly known as Papilo, among other dignitaries.
Highlights of the celebration included the presentation of souvenirs, the ceremonial Beating of the Retreat and the lighting of the bonfire, which marked the climax of the WASA 2025 festivities.
