2018 WASA: Brig- General UT Musa salutes zeal, commitment of Guards Brigade troops to professionalism, regimentation

The Commander, Guards Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Umar Tama Musa has given officers and soldiers of the elite corps, a pat on back for their hard work and commitment to duty which resulted in the Brigade being able to achieve its training and operational objectives for year 2018 despite many other national engagements.

Speaking at the Brigade 2018 WASA celebration (West African Social Activities) which witnessed a massive turn out of families of troops as well as friends & well wishers of the Brigade, the Commander said improvement of professionalism and sustenance of regimentation were recorded in all the battalions under command

“This was made possible by the zeal and determination of the officers and soldiers of the Brigade” he said adding, “To this end, we were able to organize Corporal/Below competition, Drills competition, Sports week, Obstacles competition and Officers training week, just to mention a few”.

” Interestingly, the Brigade was also able to conduct its annual ritual of the Ascent of the Aso Rock which was held on the 29th of December 2018″ he said.

Explaining why the 2018 WASA was holding in the month of March, Brig General Musa said, though the event aught to have held in January as scheduled, it was not possible due to several unseen operational and national assignments recently concluded by the Brigade.

“On its importance, the Commander said, ” WASA plays a vital role in reminding the young generation of Barracks’ community, of the good times in Nigerian villages and at the same time cementing the younger generation who were probably born outside their communities.’.

“In contemporary times, WASA has become an avenue where formations and units showcase their achievements.

Highlights of the exciting ceremony was the featuring colourful and entertaining dances from different parts of the country and presentation of various dishes by various battalion stands.

In his speech at the occasion, FCT Minister, Alhaji Musa Mohammed who was represented by Col Sani Muhammad (rtd) expressed joy that the Nigerian Army has maintained the military tradition of bringing its officers and soldiers to socialize with their civilian friends and well wishers in a very conducive environment.

He said, “The Guards Brigade has done very well within the year in ensuring that the federal capital territory remains peaceful despite their enornous responsibility of safe guarding Mr. President, the first family and the conduct of ceremonial duties within Abuja and neighbouring states.

“Let me seize this opportunity to commend the officers and soldiers of Brigade for their professional conduct during the just concluded Exercise Egwu Eke 3 otherwise call Python Dance abd the General Election 2018.

The WASA was concluded with a beating of the retreat and lighting of the camp fire.

Notable dignitaries at the 2018 WASA were Major General Saleh Maina (rtd), Major General Adeosun, Chief of Training and Operations at Army HQ, Major General Solomon Udoumwa, Major General Oyefesobi from Defence headquarters, Major General Ofoche, Commandant, Army War College, Brigadier General Hassan of DHQ and Brigadier General Adesope of Army headquarters.