By Harriet Tornguvan
The Headquarters of the Nigerian Army’s 34 Artillery Brigade held the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 at the Obinze Barracks Parade Ground in Imo State, celebrating cultural diversity while saluting the commitment and professionalism of its personnel.
The event, which attracted senior military officers, traditional rulers and other dignitaries, underscored the Nigerian Army’s enduring tradition of fostering unity, cultural integration and strong civil–military relations.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, the Commander of the 511 Quick Response Group (QRG), Owerri, Air Commodore D.E. Bello, described the Nigerian Army as a unifying institution that brings together people of diverse backgrounds in service to the nation.
He noted that the colourful cultural displays showcased during the celebration reflected the Army’s strength in diversity and shared national purpose.
“The activities witnessed today further demonstrate that the Nigerian Army remains a strong unifying institution, bringing together diverse cultures and backgrounds in service to one nation and one purpose,” Air Commodore Bello said.
He urged officers and soldiers of the Brigade to remain disciplined, professional and loyal in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, stressing that commitment to excellence remains critical to sustaining public confidence in the Armed Forces.
Also the Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade and Land Component Commander, Operation UDOKA, Major General I.M. Abbas, explained that WASA is an annual Nigerian Army tradition marking the end of training activities, while promoting unity, cultural harmony and cordial relations with host communities.
Major General Abbas recalled that the Army traces its roots to the West African Frontier Force (WAFF) of the early 1900s, whose gallantry in major campaigns, including the First World War, earned recognition and the privilege of celebrating diverse cultural heritage.
He said the event was designed to showcase Nigeria’s rich traditions while providing a platform for officers, soldiers, their families and members of host communities to interact and strengthen mutual understanding.
He further noted that in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy of building a professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force, the 34 Artillery Brigade has remained actively engaged in addressing contemporary security challenges, with the continued support of families and stakeholders.
The Brigade Commander expressed appreciation to the Imo State Government, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division and Commander Joint Task Force South East, Operation UDO KA, Major General O.A. Fadairo, as well as traditional rulers and community leaders for their sustained collaboration, which he described as vital to morale and operational effectiveness within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
Dignitaries at the event included representatives of the Imo State Government, heads of security agencies, His Royal Highness E.C. Okeke, the Eze Imo, and Nigerian football legend, Nwankwo Kanu, among others.
