Sanwo-Olu Salutes Army as 9th Brigade Marks WASA Day

Patience Ogbo/

Lagos State governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has acknowledged the professionalism and resilience of Nigerian troops in sustaining peace and tranquillity.

The governor spoke as a Special Guest of Honour last Saturday at an annual event of the 9th Brigade of the Nigeria Army Cantonment tagged end-of-year West African Social Activities (WASA) day.

The event held at the Brigade Garrison parade ground in Lagos was with pomp and ceremonies.

WASA, which is an age-long tradition inherited from the founding fathers of the Nigerian Army was borne out of the need to socialize and celebrate success recorded within a particular period. It is an annual event designed to reduce tensions and stress which would enable troops to forge ahead to face the future with renewed vigour. It further provides enabling environment for the officers and men to wine and dine with their families and immediate communities as well as showcasing the diverse cultural heritage that the Nigerian nation is made of after a successful training and operational year.

Sanwo-Olu commended the professionalism and resilience of the troops in sustaining peace and tranquillity in Lagos.

Represented by Commissioner for Special Duties, Engr Tayo Bamigbose-Martins, Sanwo-Olu said that Lagos appreciated the efforts of the troops and encouraged them to build on their last year’s performance to ensure a successful outing in this 2020.

Welcoming the audience, the Chief Host and Commander 9th Brigade, Brigadier General Musa Awwal Etsu-Ndagi said WASA was meant to take officers away from their routine regimental life and make them comfortable in a relaxed mood.

Lagos State commissioner of police, Mr Hakeem Odumosu who was present at the event said the Nigeria police Lagos State Command enjoyed a robust relationship with the 9th Brigade cantonment.

Highlights of the event were performances from different cultural troupes including Ijumu Kabba, Yoruba, Nupe, Igbo, and comedy presentation.

There was also a Tug of War competition between female soldiers and female corp members as well as Male soldiers of 9th Brigade Garrison and other service units of the Headquarters. To boost the morale and encourage them for better future performance, 15 Soldiers that have distinguished themselves were given awards for their outstanding performance in 2019.

The event climaxed with a beating of the retreat and lighting of a campfire.

The occasion was graced by the General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Nigerian Army, represented by Chief of Staff, Brig Gen Nsikak Edet; Commander NNS Beecroft; Reps of AOC LC, Commandant NAFRC and the Commissioner of Police, Lagos Command as well as other Heads of Sister security agencies and Captains of Industries.

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