Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has lauded the Nigerian Army for their dedicated service to the nation.
The Governor made the commendation on Saturday, as the Special Guest of Honour at 8 Division Nigerian Army, West African Social Activities (WASA) 2024 held at Giginya barrack Sokoto.
The West African Social Activities (WASA) is an annual event organized by the Nigerian Army to celebrate the diverse and rich cultural heritage of the country, the event brings together officers, soldiers, and their families in a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate and mark the end of the year’s activities.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Careers and Security Matters, Colonel Ahmed Usman (rtd), Governor Aliyu also commended the General officer commanding GOC 8Div headquarters and Commander Northwest Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Ibukunle Ajose, and his team for their excellent performance, while urging them to strive hard for excellence and greatness.
“I am optimistic that you will rise to the challenges of your constitutional mandate to keep the flag flying.”
He noted that the diversity of experiences, skills, and talents of officers and soldiers is an asset to the nation and the Nigerian Army.
“I have mandated the good people of Sokoto state to avail the Military and other security Agencies in the state with useful information that will help in the restoration of peace in the state and other part of the northwest.
“We have donated several operational vehicles to security Agencies in the state, aimed at fighting banditry and kidnapping activities in the state.
“Sokoto state government has established a local security outfit known as Sokoto Community Guards and provided them with necessary working tools to complement the efforts of the conventional security Agencies operating in the state.”
Earlier, the GOC 8Div headquarters Nigerian Army and Commander Northwest Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Ibukunle Ajose, said the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2024 WASA is an annual event organized for officers, soldiers, and their families to interact in a conducive atmosphere.
He said the history of the event dates back to 1901, following the incorporation of Nigeria into the West African Frontier Force, in recognition of the diverse cultural backgrounds of West African soldiers.
“WASA is a unique tradition that provides an opportunity for troops to appreciate our diversity, celebrate our successes, and reinforce the bond we share with our host communities.
“It is a time to reflect on our collective achievements, honor our shared cultural heritage, and strengthen camaraderie, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
“The year 2024 has been both eventful and highly successful for us in 8 Division and Sector 2 Joint Task Force Northwest Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
“It is gratifying to note that we completed all training schedules as reflected in the Army Headquarters Forecast of Events for the year, despite facing some significant challenges.
“Among our successes was the operationalization of the 248 Recce Bn in Illelah, the recent deployment of the Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Battalion VII in Gudu, and the addition of new Nigerian Air Force air assets and other combat enablers into the operation, which have acted as force multipliers.
“These efforts have led to several victories in the ongoing fight against banditry and terrorism across our Area of Responsibility. Many bandit leaders and their supporters have been eliminated, greatly contributing to the stabilization of the region.
“This success has significantly boosted socio-economic activities, as farmers and citizens are now able to go about their activities in peace and increasing public confidence in our efforts.
“Despite challenges, we are resolute in removing all obstacles to peace in our Area of Responsibility. I urge all to remain vigilant in security matters, particularly in these challenging times.
“I also want to express my heartfelt thanks to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Sokoto, Dr. Ahmad Aliyu, for his unwavering support in achieving lasting peace in the State and for attending this significant event.”
“The welfare of our troops and infrastructural development within 8 Division has received priority attention, with several intervention projects executed and commissioned, notably, the asphalted 1 km road in Giginya Cantonment and the renovation of blocks at the SNCOs, Corporal, and Below Quarters.
“We remain deeply grateful to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. OO Oluyede, for his continued support to 8 Division, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and troops’ welfare.
“Moving forward, my goal as the General Officer Commanding is to build on the many successes achieved in 2024.
“It’s my sincere commitment that we will continue to adhere to the COAS’ command philosophy: “To consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards bequeathing a well-motivated and combat-ready force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.”
