Writing by Usman Sani;Editing by Abubakar Hamza.
The Nigerian Army has been urged to sustain civil-military relations for national development and improved security.
Former Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim (rtd) made the call at the Jaji Military Cantonment end of year 2025 combined West African Social Activities-WASA held at Jaji, Kaduna State.
Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim (rtd) observed that beyond the fanfare, WASA serves as a powerful reminder that the Armed Forces draw its strength from the diversity of the people and the support of the society they protect.
He pointed out that it also provides the platform where military professionalism meets cultural identity and where discipline harmoniously co-exists with celebration.
“This collaboration is a clear testament to the unity of purpose within the Nigerian Army”
Major General Ibrahim (rtd) noted that the Nigerian Army especially the Infantry Corps continues to play pivotal role in addressing the nation’s security challenges.
Earlier in his welcome address, Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Godwin Mutkut said that year 2025 was one of significant challenges and notable accomplishments for the Army and Infantry Corps in particular.
He disclosed that personnel continued to demonstrate courage, professionalism and resilience in the face of evolving security threats across Nigeria.
“From internal security operations to training and capacity development, our officers and soldiers remained steadfast in their constitutional role of safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria”he said.
Major General Mutkut stressed that 2025 WASA was particularly significant because its a joint celebration bringing together officers, soldiers, trainees and families from formations and units within the Cantonment and composite base depot, Jaji.
Highpoint of the event included tour of unit stands, tug of war competition, presentation of awards to some deserving personnel as well as various cultural displays.
The West African Social Activities-WASA is an event that marks the formal end of activities for the year and serves as one of the most cherished traditions of the Nigerian Army.
Participants were drawn from Headquarters, Infantry Corps Centre, Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre Admin battalion, Nigerian Army School of Infantry-NASI, Warrant Officers Academy-WOA, 601 Aviation Unit and composite depot, Jaji.
Usman Sani.