WASA: Bago praises Army’s Sacrifices, Seeks Stronger Civil-military Ties
The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sacrifices and operational successes in the state, calling for stronger civil–military relations to sustain peace and security.
Bago spoke on Saturday at the 2025 Combined West African Social Activities (WASA) celebration held at the Minna Military Cantonment, organised by the Training and Doctrine Command, Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the 31 Artillery Brigade.
The governor, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, described the military as a critical partner in safeguarding lives and property, noting that sustained operations by the Armed Forces had significantly improved security across several parts of Niger State.
According to him, WASA is more than a cultural festivity, as it provides an important platform for fostering mutual understanding and trust between the military and host communities.
“The Armed Forces have continued to demonstrate professionalism, resilience and sacrifice in the discharge of their constitutional duties. Their efforts have yielded visible improvements in security, particularly in areas that were previously unsafe,” Bago said.
He cited parts of Shiroro and Munya Local Government Areas as examples of communities where security conditions had improved due to the concerted efforts of the military and other security agencies.
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As a show of appreciation, the Niger State Government made monetary donations to the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association, and the WASA Organising Committee.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command, Major General Peter Malla, thanked the governor for honouring the event and commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, for his leadership and support in enhancing training and improving troops’ welfare.
Malla urged officers and soldiers to remain disciplined, resilient and committed to their constitutional responsibilities, while acknowledging the vital role of military families in sustaining morale and operational effectiveness.
In his vote of thanks, the Commander, 31 Artillery Brigade, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Umar Jibo, expressed appreciation to the governor for his presence and support, describing the donations as a morale booster for troops and their families.
Jibo also thanked the Chief of Army Staff for his leadership and praised the Minna community, traditional rulers and other stakeholders for their continued support, noting that WASA remained a symbol of unity in diversity within the Nigerian Army.
The event was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by Lieutenant Colonel Felicia Daniel, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Training and Doctrine Command, Nigerian Army.
He said the ceremony featured colourful cultural displays and traditional performances from various geopolitical zones, highlighting the Army’s cultural heritage and reinforcing bonds between the military and the civilian population.
By PRNigeria
