The troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army have been hailed by the governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Rt Hon Barr Simon Bako Lalong, for restoring peace and creating an atmosphere that encourages the blooming of cultural activities in the state.
According to information provided to journalists by Lieutenant-Colonel Ishaku Takwa, the Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 3 Division Jos, the Governor of Plateau State made this declaration on Saturday, February 18, 2023, during the celebration of year 2022 West African Social Activities (WASA), which was held at the 3 Division Physical Training Ground, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment Jos. The Governor commended the Nigerian Army for preserving and showcasing Nigeria’s illustrious cultural heritage through its annual WASA festival, which showcases traditional dances and other artistic displays.
The governor of Plateau State further stated that without assistance and cooperation from other security organizations, traditional leaders, and the residents of Plateau State, the military would not have been able to keep the peace on its own.
The governor, who was represented by retired Major General Augustine Agundu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, said the state would continue to support the military and other security organizations in the state to make sure it lives up to its slogan of being the “Home of Peace and Tourism.” He went on to say that the peace that prevailed at the moment made it possible for the Plateau to host the Festival of Art and Culture as well as other cultural events all around the state.
He asked all parties to provide the military and other security institutions with their assistance in order to eradicate all forms of violence and criminal activities in the state. This, he claims, will promote cultural activities in the plateau state and speed economic progress.
Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalami Ibrahim, who is the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3rd Division and the commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), said this earlier in his welcome speech. The degree of cooperation in the state between security groups and the general population was another area where he expressed satisfaction. stated that everyone values peace highly and urged state citizens and other stakeholders to keep working together for peace and development.
He emphasized his dedication to upholding peace within the Division’s sphere of influence once more. Maj Gen Ibrahim stated that after taking over his command, he visited and met with key stakeholders in the states of Plateau, Bauchi, Taraba Adamawa, and a portion of Southern Kaduna to ensure peace in those areas. He expressed his happiness at seeing members of the Nigerian Army, their families, and the citizens of Plateau State come together in a friendly setting to celebrate and share their rich and unique cultural heritage.
He went on to remark that the welfare of the men and their appreciation of effort were intrinsically related to his command. This was undeniably demonstrated by the fact that the celebration was held in order to recognize workers who went above and beyond in the professional performance of their duties. Cows and cash prizes were also offered to the cleanest blocks in Phases One and Two in order to further encourage good hygiene in the cantonment. He also used the occasion to express his gratitude to Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya CFR, Chief of Army Staff, for supporting the Nigerian Army and serving as an illustration of transformational leadership. He claimed that Yahaya’s leadership was a key factor in the Division’s current successes in its area of accountability.
Highlights of the event included cultural performances by various cultural groups, a unique Quarter Guard drill demonstration by soldiers’ wives (Magajiyas), as well as incredibly entertaining tug-of-war competitions involving members of the Federal Fire Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps. A few other examples are National Youth Corps members and military spouses. At the ceremony, guests could see the Camp Fire’s lightning strike as well as gifts being given to dignitaries and the retreat’s beating heart.
Chiefs of the Plateau’s security agencies, commanders from other services, main staff officers, retired senior officers, and traditional and community leaders are among the dignitaries in attendance.
