A former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor has called on personnel of the Nigerian Army to remain steadfast in upholding their constitutional responsibilities and democratic values while synergizing with other security agencies to address the nation’s security challenges.
This was contained in a statement made available to Defence Correspondences in Abuja on Sunday by Director of Nigerian. Army Public Relations, Major Gen Onyema Nwachukwu
According to the statement, Gen Irabor made the appeal at the weekend while speaking at the 2024 Army Headquarters Departments and Commands West African Social Activities (WASA) held at the Army Headquarters Garrison, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.
It stated that the former CDS who was the Special Guest of Honour at the occasion commended the sacrifices and dedication of personnel and urged to them to remain vigilant and focused on their duties.
He highlighted the richness and cultural diversity of Nigerian soldiers which he described as source of strength for effectiveness.
According to I, Gen Irabor pointed out that the that the has a long history of heritage and achievements with documented victories in both World Wars, peacekeeping operations, and internal security operations across the country.
It added Gen Irabor noted that the Army had made significant contributions to national growth and development, beyond their traditional defence and security duties through the dedication and sacrifices of military personnel, some of whom have paid the supreme price through service to the nation.
He urged the Army to continue synergizing with other security agencies, respect rules of law, and subordinate to civil authority.
It further added that the former CDS commemorated with the officers and soldiers of the Army and urged them to remain focus as the nation looked upto the Service to keep upholding democratic values.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede emphasized the significance of WASA as a platform to celebrate national heritage and promote unity, camaraderie and esprit de corps among personnel and their families.
According to it, the COAS stated further that the event also availed the command the opportunity to thank God and appreciate personnel for their individual and collective contributions peace and security of the citizens.
The COAS pointed out that WASA showcased the Nigerian Army’s diverse ethnic heritage, rich cultural traditions, extensive geographical representation, and huge expectations of Nigerians in NA’s commitment to addressing security challenges.
The Army Chief appreciated the continued support and cooperation of other security and sister agencies in the execution of various operations, assuring that the NA will continue to foster stronger partnerships to enhance collective capacity to address the nation’s security challenges.
The Army Chief further expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and strategic guidance to the Nigerian Army.
It added that earlier in his welcome address, Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Koko Isoni recalled the tradition of WASA dated back to the era of the second World War, during which Officers, soldiers and their families come together to socialize in a relaxed mood to mark the end of the year’s activities.
He added that the event also served as a vehicle to enhance esprit de corps and the spirit of brotherliness within the Service.
This year’s event was marked by various activities including Tug of War, Female Soldiers Bike Display, Band display, presentation of awards, Mega Suya/Nigerian Tradition Cuisine Competition, cultural performances showcasing Nigeria cultural diversity and lightening of burn fire.
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