On Thursday, December 26, 2024, the 18 Brigade Nigerian Army, Bida, held its West African Social Activity (WASA) 2024 at Litani Barracks, Bida. The event provided as a venue to introduce the upcoming year’s programming and celebrated the end of the Brigade’s 2024 training activities. Additionally, it gave officers, soldiers, their families, and local residents a chance to socialize and build relationships with one another.
The event drew notable attendees, including representatives from the Niger State Government, traditional leaders, senior military officers (retired and active), and other dignitaries from a variety of fields, according to a statement released by Assistant Director Army Public Relations 18 Brigade Yahaya Nasir Kabara.
Major General MA Garba (rtd), the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH), praised the Brigade’s outstanding performance in the previous year, especially its contributions to civil-military cooperation and security. During the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, he emphasized noteworthy accomplishments including environmental cleaning and the Chief of Army Staff Scholarship, which he called important turning points. In order to build on the accomplishments, General Garba asked the public to keep helping the military and other security forces.
Brigadier General Taiye Ahmed, Commander of 18 Brigade, highlighted the Nigerian Army’s dedication to strengthening relationships with host communities by celebrating culture and tradition in his welcome remarks. When he looked back on the Brigade’s 2024 accomplishments, he recognized notable successes in spite of the difficulties, such as the deaths of brave officers and soldiers who lost their lives while performing their duties. He reaffirmed the Brigade’s dedication to carrying out its mission.
Cultural dances, horseback riding, and a range of traditional foods were among the vibrant events at the WASA 2024 festival. Following the solemn blowing of the Last Post and a musical performance by the Brigade Band, the Special Guest of Honor lit the blaze.
The heads of security agencies in Bida, HRH Etsu Nupe, Dr. Yahaya Abubakar, CFR (represented by Alhaji Abdullahi Umar and Gafakan Nupe), Major General SS Jiya, Group Managing Director of Nigerian Army Welfare Limited by Guarantee (NAWLG), and Brigadier General Bello Abdullahi Muhammad (rtd), Commissioner for Niger State Ministry of Homeland Security, were among the notable attendees.
According to reports, the celebration was vibrant, significant, and flawless, demonstrating the solidarity and fraternity that characterize the Nigerian Army’s dedication to its soldiers and communities.
