The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), OFR has underscored nationwide unity as a decisive answer to Nigeria’s up to date safety challenges, commending the Nigerian Army for exemplifying cohesion, professionalism and patriotism in motion.
According to an announcement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the Minister made the remarks on Saturday, 14 February 2026, in the course of the Army Headquarters Departments and Commands West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025, held on the Army Headquarters Garrison Parade Ground, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.
Represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Major General Henry Wesley (Rtd), the Minister described the Nigerian Army as a microcosm of the Nigerian state, an establishment the place ethnic, cultural and spiritual variety converges underneath one nationwide id. He famous that at a time when Nigeria confronts advanced and evolving safety threats, unity stays probably the most potent strategic asset in safeguarding nationwide peace and stability.
According to him, the Army’s sustained dedication to self-discipline, professionalism and collective objective reinforces nationwide integration and demonstrates that variety, when successfully harnessed, turns into a energy relatively than a fault line. He praised the Service for its unwavering function in defending the nation’s sovereignty, supporting civil authorities, upholding the rule of regulation and defending residents throughout all areas.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who served as Chief Host, reiterated that WASA is greater than a cultural occasion. It is a deliberate morale-building and unifying platform embedded throughout the Robust Administration pillar of his Command Philosophy. He emphasised that fostering esprit de corps, inclusiveness and shared id amongst personnel instantly enhances operational effectiveness.
The COAS famous that deliberate welfare insurance policies, institutional reforms and strengthened assist buildings are being applied to entrench the Soldier First Culture, making certain that personnel stay motivated, combat-ready and resilient, whereas their households obtain satisfactory assist. He affirmed {that a} united and well-motivated power is healthier positioned to confront terrorism, insurgency, banditry and different rising safety threats.
Addressing up to date safety realities, the Army Chief reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s resolve to work collaboratively with sister companies and different safety businesses to consolidate positive aspects and restore lasting peace nationwide. He expressed profound appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the Honourable Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff for his or her strategic course and steadfast assist.
In his welcome tackle, the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, highlighted WASA as a significant instrument for strengthening bonds amongst officers, troopers and their households. He defined that the celebration of Nigeria’s numerous cultural heritage by way of conventional dances and performances reinforces mutual respect, shared id and nationwide cohesion, values important to overcoming safety challenges.
He additional disclosed that the Army Headquarters Departments and Commands recorded notable operational, administrative and logistics successes in 2025, alongside sustained coaching actions according to the COAS’ directives and the Nigerian Army’s operational priorities. As the Service advances into 2026, he assured the COAS of personnel’s renewed dedication, self-discipline and responsiveness in service to the nation.
The vibrant occasion featured conventional cultural shows, beating of the retreat and the ceremonial lighting of the bonfire, symbolizing unity, continuity and collective resolve in defence of Nigeria.
