The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Maiyeranso Lander David Saraso, commissioned multiple projects at 18 Brigade, Litani Barracks, Bida, Niger State, during his administrative visit on 26 January 2025. Among the commissioned projects was the Hall of Heroes building, named in honor of the immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen TA Lagbaja.
In a statement by Major Yahaya Nasir, Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 18 Brigade, the Hall of Heroes was described as an honor and remembrance monument for gallant officers and soldiers of the Brigade who paid the supreme price in the line of duty during various operations within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility. Initiated and funded by the Commander 18 Brigade, Brigadier General Taiye Ahmed, the building includes a Heroes Hall with portraits of the deceased personnel, an arcade for wreath-laying ceremonies, and framed quotes highlighting the sacrifices of the fallen heroes. Additionally, a planned green area outside the building features trees planted in honor of the deceased personnel.
During the commissioning, Major General Saraso commended Brigadier General Ahmed for his foresight in creating such a meaningful and impactful project. The GOC also performed a maiden wreath-laying ceremony in conjunction with widows of two deceased officers, further emphasizing the Brigade’s commitment to honoring its fallen personnel.
Other commissioned projects included two units of three-bedroom flats for officers, a block of ten two-bedroom flats for Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs), and a block of ten two-room flats for Corporals and below. These facilities are part of ongoing Nigerian Army Headquarters infrastructural interventions aimed at improving living conditions in the barracks. Additionally, a complex housing the Brigade’s Arms Store and Magazine was commissioned, and a newly constructed signpost for the Brigade at the barracks gate was unveiled.
Earlier, General Saraso received a briefing on the Brigade’s activities from Brigadier General Ahmed before addressing the officers and soldiers at the parade ground. In his address, the GOC conveyed the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) goodwill messages, emphasizing the “Soldiers First” policy. He urged troops to redouble their efforts in consolidating the successes of ongoing operations. The GOC also interacted with barracks women, appreciating their resilience and sacrifices in supporting the troops.
The GOC concluded his visit with a courtesy call on His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar CFR, the Etsu Nupe, at the Historical Palace of Etsu Nupe. During the visit, General Saraso expressed gratitude to the royal father for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Army, particularly to the troops at Litani Barracks. He highlighted the critical role of traditional institutions in fostering peace and security in the country. In response, His Royal Highness commended the conduct and contributions of 18 Brigade troops within the Emirate and extended his greetings and prayers to the Chief of Army Staff.
