By Rita Iliya
Maj.-Gen. John Adeyemo, Commander, Corps of Artillery, on Sunday commended officers and soldiers of the corps for their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the defence of Nigeria’s unity, peace and security.
He gave the commendation in a welcome address at the 2025 Combined West African Social Activities (WASA) held at the Military Cantonment in Kontagora in Niger.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, which brought together headquarters of Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery (HQ NACA), Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC) and 311 Artillery Regiment marked the formal end of activities for 2025 training year.
Adeyemo said WASA remained a key tradition of the Nigerian Army aimed at celebrating achievements, honouring outstanding performances and strengthening esprit de corps.
He said the annual social forum also served as a platform for strategic communication, allowing commanders to outline expectations for the new year while fostering camaraderie among personnel, their families other security agencies and the host communities.
According to him, the tradition promotes national unity and remains one of the core ethics and customs of the Nigerian army that must be preserved.
The commander expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for sponsoring the 2025 WASA, noting that the support underscored the army leadership commitment to troop welfare and morale.
He commended officers and soldiers for their dedication and sacrifices in 2025, as well as the vital support of their families, which he said contributed to operational successes recorded during the year.
Adeyemo also paid tribute to fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in the service of the nation and prayed for the repose of their souls and assured that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
He said the COAS command philosophy, which seeks to transform the Nigerian army into a professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of operating in joint and multi-agency environments, would continue to guide operations in 2026.
In his goodwill message, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, Speaker of Niger House of Assembly, commended the Nigerian army formations in Kontagora for their contributions to peace and security in the state.
Sarkindaji, represented by Jibrin Ndagibaba, member representing Lavun Constituency, described WASA as a unique platform that showcases Nigeria’s cultural diversity while providing soldiers and their families an opportunity to bond in spite of the rigours of military duties.
He disclosed that the activities of 311 Artillery Regiment and other formations in the area had significantly reduced criminal activities, thereby boosting public confidence and security in the state.
The speaker assured the Army of the continued support of the state government and people of Niger, while praying for the families of personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
In his remarks, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Haruna, Commander, Nigerian Army Training Centre, expressed gratitude to the COAS for providing the necessary logistics for its smooth conduct.
Haruna also appreciated traditional rulers, community leaders and soldiers’ families for their sustained support, which he said had strengthened peaceful coexistence between the military and host communities.
Highlights of the event includes tug-of-war competitions involving soldiers, police personnel and women, cultural dance displays, presentation of gifts and awards, beating of retreat and lighting of the bonfire. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
edited by Ismail Abdulaziz
