By Usman Aliyu
The 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Benin, has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling insecurity in Edo during the 2025 West African Social Activities (WASSA).
Opening the colourful event, Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Balogun, said the Army would consolidate operational gains to ensure residents live and trade without fear.
“We intend to consolidate on last year’s strategies so people can sleep with their eyes closed and conduct business without fear or favour.
“By the grace of God, insecurity will be tackled head-on and reduced to the barest minimum in this state,” Balogun said.
Balogun described WASSA as an age-long military tradition dating to the Second World War, when West African troops gathered under the Royal West African Frontier Force.
He said the event celebrates peace, cultural heritage and collective achievements across the sub-region.
“WASSA creates a conducive atmosphere for officers, soldiers and families to relax and socialise with host communities at the end of a training year,” he said.
The commander noted the tradition’s endurance across West Africa, describing it as vital for unity and esprit de corps.
He said the 2025 training year prioritised professionalism and sustained operational excellence.
Balogun said objectives were largely achieved through officers’ and soldiers’ commitment, with support from the military high command.
Men of the brigade during a tug of war to celebrate WASSA 2025
He thanked the Chief of Army Staff and the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, for “strategic guidance”, and Edo Government and security agencies for collaboration.
Balogun reaffirmed the brigade’s “unalloyed loyalty” to military leadership and the Nigerian-state.
“The year 2026 has begun with enthusiasm to further actualise the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy,” he said.
Gov. Monday Okpebholo, represented by Finance Commissioner Emmanuel Okoebor, praised the brigade’s sacrifices and contributions to Edo’s security.
The governor said the brigade’s operations significantly contributed to the relative security enjoyed in the state.
“The comparatively low level of violence and criminality is largely due to the brigade’s proactiveness with other security agencies,” he said.
The governor described WASSA as timely, noting Edo’s cultural diversity resonated with the celebration’s spirit.
“The intrusive nature of Western culture demands that cultural events like WASSA be encouraged more regularly,” he said.
He assured continued state partnership and support for the brigade’s constitutional responsibilities.
NAN reports that WASSA 2025 featured traditional dances, cultural displays, a tug-of-war, local cuisines, a beating of retreat and a bonfire.
The event brought soldiers, their families and the host community together in a relaxed atmosphere. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
