Army pledges commitment to South East security

The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its determination to guarantee a secure environment for socio-economic activities and sustainable development across the South East, declaring that its troops remain resolute in protecting lives and property in the region.

The General Officer Commanding of 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Oluremi Fadairo, gave the assurance on Saturday at the Abakpa Military Cantonment Parade Ground, Enugu, during the 2025 West Africa Social Activities organised by Headquarters 82 Division.

“Be rest assured of the commitment of the officers and men of this Division to ensuring the safety and security for socio-economic activities and development to thrive within the South East,” Fadairo said.

He commended commanders and troops under his command for what he described as sustained resilience and operational successes.

“I must commend my indefatigable formations and units’ commanders and troops for the continued resilience in the field, which has yielded successes.

“I urge you all to sustain the tempo as we discharge our constitutional responsibilities,” he added.

The GOC explained that WASA remains a core military tradition designed to promote unity, cohesion, and cultural understanding within the Nigerian Army, despite the demands of contemporary operations.

The observation of West African Social Activities has been conceptualised as an annual event across Nigerian Army units and formations.

“It provides a platform for reinforcing unity, resilience and mutual understanding, with emphasis on family inclusion, cultural sensitivity, moral development and civil-military relations,” he said.

Tracing the origin of barracks social life to the West African Frontier Force era, Fadairo noted that early soldiers from present-day Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia relied on communal activities such as music, sports, storytelling, and shared meals to build trust and cohesion.

“Those interactions laid the foundation for a shared West African military culture built on communal values and mutual respect,” he stated.

Fadairo expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, for providing strategic guidance and resources for the event, and thanked the Enugu State Government for its consistent partnership in security matters.

“My appreciation goes to the Enugu State Governor, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, for being a reliable partner in our joint pursuit of national security objectives,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Peter Mbah, the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ossai, praised the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices.

On behalf of a grateful state, I want to say thank you to the Army, the Air Force and the Navy for all the incredible work you have done and continue to do to protect us,” Ossai said.

He stressed that the sacrifices of military families deserve recognition.

“Today is not just about the men and women in uniform that we send on harm’s way, it is also about their families and those who stay at home while they defend us,” he said.

Ossai described the relationship between Enugu State Government and security agencies as cordial and productive.

“It is not hidden that we have a warm and healthy relationship with the Army, Police, Air Force, DSS, Navy, and NSCDC,” he stated.

Commending the organisation of the event, Ossai said, “What we have seen today is exceptional—well organised, well disciplined and well orchestrated.”

Highlights of the celebration included cultural dance performances by the Enugu State Cultural Troupe and Amata-Mgbowo Atilogwu Cultural Troupe, as well as a cooking competition involving departments

and units of 82 Division.

Senior military officers, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other dignitaries attended the event.