The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has commended troops of Guards Brigade, Nigerian Army for their services to the nation.
The Minister gave the commendation as the Special Guest of Honour at Guards Brigade West African Social Activities (WASA) 2023 held at the Cuàrds Brigàde Garrison, Mambilla barracks, in Abuja.
The West African Social Activities (WASA) is an annual event organized by the Nigerian Army to celebrate the diverse rich cultural heritage of our great country.
The annual event brings together Officers, Soldiers, and their families in a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate and mark the end of the year’s activities.
In his remarks at the occasion, the Matawalle commended the Commander Guards Brigade and his team for excellent work, and charged them to aim at greatness and excellence in discharging their duties.
“I am confident that Guards Brigade will rise to the challenges of their duties and keep the flag flying at all times,” he said.
On the importance of the Guards Brigade to the nation, he noted that the diversity of experiences, skills and talents of officers and soldiers of the elite Brigade is an asset to the Nigerian Army and the nation.
“I believe that your dedication to duty will encourage and motivate other soldiers elsewhere to emulate your exemplary efforts.
“I also thank you all not just for your service to this great country but for reminding us why Nigeria will always be a great nation,” he stated.
Tasking them on their primary duty to the Presidency, Federal Capital Territory and its environs , the Minister said that “their unwavering loyalty, sacrifices and hard work were appreciated’.
” Your hard work planning and managing the security threats in the Federal Capital Territory has ensured the safety of not only Mr. President but that of other citizens, visitors and diplomats.
Highlights of the event were the tour of Units and Garrison stands, Cultural display, children’s sack race, taekwondo display, tug of war, beating of retreat, and lighting of the born fire by the Minister.
Dignitaries present at the WASA included the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Taoreed Lagbaja and NAOWA President, Mrs Mariya Lagbaja, Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major Gen Parkar Udiandeye, Directors from the Ministry of Defence ànd Principal Staff Officers from Defence and Army hesdquarters
The Minister donated a car to support WASA 2023..The donated car was won in the lucky dip raffle draw competition at the event by Mariam Abrahim
Guards Brigade Commander, Brigadier Gen Adebisi Onasanya had esrlier welcome participants to the WASA drawn fron the battalions under his command and explained the cultural importance of WASA to soldiers and their families
Several other lucky winners went home with various gifts ranging from vegetable oil, bags of rice, grinding machine, Television set and cows sponsored by the organiser
