Guards Brigade Commander Emphasizes Cultural Harmony, Tolerance at Annual Social Event
In a bid to foster cultural harmony and tolerance among military personnel within the barracks and neighbouring communities, Colonel Adebisi Onasanya, Commander Guards Brigade, underscored the importance of promoting unity during the 2023 West African Social Activities (WASA) held at Azazi Barracks, Gwagwalada, Abuja.
Colonel Onasanya emphasized the unique role of WASA, an annual event marking the conclusion of training activities for the year, as a platform for relaxation and socialization. He highlighted its evolution as a medium for informal interaction among officers, soldiers, and their families, creating opportunities for knowledge and experience sharing.
“This also avails the unit the opportunity to relate with professionals from all spheres of life, creating a platform for sharing of knowledge and experience,” stated Colonel Onasanya.
Acknowledging the Guards Brigade’s responsibility for providing security to the President, members of his family, Aso Rocks community, and the Federal Capital Territory, Colonel Onasanya commended the unit’s diligent efforts in achieving its mandate.
The Commander also praised the 176 Guards Battalion for its hard work and success throughout the year. He expressed gratitude to the families of soldiers and officers for their understanding and cooperation in addressing the country’s security challenges.
Lieutenant Colonel Olumide Akingbesote, the Commanding Officer of the 176 Guards Battalion, delved into the historical context of the event, tracing its roots to the West African Frontier Force during the colonial era. He emphasized the Nigerian Army’s commitment to upholding the tradition of the West African Social Activities, promoting cultural displays, and fostering esprit de corps among troops.
Highlighting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, Colonel Akingbesote stated, “Nigeria remains a reference wherever culture is mentioned anywhere in the world.”
The event showcased a variety of cultural displays, acrobatics, a tug-of-war competition between the wives of Senior NCOs and Corporals, and featured local Nigerian delicacies. Notable moments included the presentation of awards to outstanding soldiers and the ceremonial lighting of the Camp Fire.
WASA, a military regimental event with origins dating back to the Second World War, serves as an integral part of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to creating a conducive atmosphere for officers, soldiers, and their families, promoting cultural integration within the barracks community. The tradition, institutionalized by colonial authorities, has endured, becoming a recurring feature annually.