By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army took centre stage in Abuja on Saturday as the Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, underscored national unity as a decisive strategic force multiplier in confronting Nigeria’s evolving security challenges, while commending the Service for demonstrating cohesion, professionalism and patriotism in action.
The Minister made the remarks during the Army Headquarters Departments and Commands West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025, held at the Garrison Parade Ground, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, where military tradition, cultural pride and operational reflection converged in a symbolic reaffirmation of unity within the ranks.
Represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Major General Henry Wesley (Rtd), Musa described the Nigerian Army as “a microcosm of the Nigerian state, an institution where ethnic, cultural and religious diversity converges under one national identity,” noting that at a time when Nigeria confronts complex and evolving security threats, unity remains the most potent strategic asset in safeguarding national peace and stability.
He emphasized that the Army’s sustained commitment to discipline, professionalism and collective purpose reinforces national integration and demonstrates that diversity, when effectively harnessed, becomes a strength rather than a fault line. He further praised the Service for its unwavering role in defending the nation’s sovereignty, supporting civil authorities, upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens across all regions.
Serving as Chief Host, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, reiterated that WASA is more than a ceremonial cultural gathering, describing it as “a deliberate morale-building and unifying platform embedded within the Robust Administration pillar of my Command Philosophy.”
He stressed that fostering esprit de corps, inclusiveness and shared identity among personnel directly enhances operational effectiveness, adding that deliberate welfare policies, institutional reforms and strengthened support structures are being implemented to entrench the Soldier First Culture.
According to him, these measures are designed to ensure that personnel remain motivated, combat-ready and resilient, while their families receive adequate support, affirming that “a united and well-motivated force is better positioned to confront terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other emerging security threats.”
The Army Chief also reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to jointness and collaboration with sister services and other security agencies to consolidate operational gains and restore lasting peace across the country.
He expressed profound appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Honourable Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff for what he described as their strategic direction and steadfast support, which continue to strengthen the Army’s operational capacity.
In his welcome address, the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, highlighted WASA as a vital instrument for strengthening bonds among officers, soldiers and their families, noting that beyond its ceremonial appeal, the event serves as a powerful platform for reinforcing unity within the military community.
He explained that the celebration of Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage through traditional dances and performances reinforces mutual respect, shared identity and national cohesion, which he described as essential values in overcoming contemporary security challenges.
Dangana further disclosed that the Army Headquarters Departments and Commands recorded notable operational, administrative and logistics successes in 2025, alongside sustained training activities carried out in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s directives and the Nigerian Army’s operational priorities.
“As the Service advances into 2026, personnel remain resolute in their renewed dedication, discipline and responsiveness in service to the nation,” he assured.
The colourful ceremony featured rich traditional cultural displays representing Nigeria’s diverse ethnic heritage, the solemn beating of the retreat and the ceremonial lighting of the bonfire, symbolizing unity, continuity and the collective resolve of the Nigerian Army to defend the nation’s sovereignty and preserve its peace.
The event once again reinforced the enduring role of unity as both a cultural bond and a strategic necessity within the Nigerian Army, as the Service continues to confront complex security realities while strengthening internal cohesion and national integration.
