Ben Ezechime, Enugu
Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, says the Army remains in the fore-front of promoting nation’s rich and beautiful cultural heritage.
Dada said this on Thursday at the West Africa Social Activities (WASA) of the 103 Battalion, Awkunanaw, Enugu held at the Battalion’s barrack.
The GOC, represented by the Commander of 54 Signal Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Anthony Kubiangha, noted that WASA provided an opportunity to present the nation’s diverse cultural cuisines, attires, dance displays and other unique heritage of the great people of the country.
“It is also a unique occasion for us as officers and soldiers to sit together and interact with our family members, which call of duty might not easily permit us.
“It is also time to get our families to know each other one-on-one and look after each other’s wellbeing within the barrack or cantonment community and our civilian neighbours.
“This event will also enhance understanding of our diverse cultural norms and practises as well as promote peace and geninue oneness,” he said.
The GOC, however, tasked troops of the Battalion to remain focussed in their assigned duties and continue to keep the flag flying.
Earlier, the Commanding Officer (Rear) of 103 Battalion, Awkunanaw, Maj. Opeyemi Abai, appreciated the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja and the GOC for making the WASA occasion possible.
Abai also thanked the guest of honour, former Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, as well as representatives of the commissioner of police, commandant of NSCDC and the State Director of the DSS for making it to the event.
“WASA is an annual event to bring all members of the barrack communuty together as well as our friends in other security agencies, civilian friends and well-wishers to enjoy our local culture and cuisines.
“The event is in line with the COAS’s philosophy and the need to relate well with other security agencies in a joint security environment,” he said.
The event featured various cultural cuisines, attires and dance displays as well as tug-of-war and presentation of awards to deserving soldiers that performed exceptionally well in 2023.
The bonfire edifice was ignited by former Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to signal the end of the colourful occasion.
