Former GOC 1 Division Commends Troops for Securing Lagos
Former GOC 1 Division Commends Troops for Securing Lagos
Former GOC 1 Division Commends Troops for Securing Lagos
In recognition of their dedicated efforts in maintaining security throughout 2023, officers and soldiers of Headquarters Nigerian Army Engineers (NAE) and 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA) have received commendations for their role in ensuring the safety of Lagos and Ogun State.
The accolades were bestowed by Major General JO Shoboiki (Rtd), a former General Officer Commanding 1 Division NA, during the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2023 held at 65 Battalion Parade Ground, Bonny Cantonment, Victoria Island, Lagos. Major General Shoboiki, as the Special Guest of Honour, praised the troops for their professionalism and sacrifices, emphasising their significant contribution to maintaining relative peace and security in Lagos State and its environs.
While addressing the gathering, General Shoboiki urged the troops to remain vigilant and maintain a high level of professionalism in the new year. He highlighted the busy and tasking nature of the troops’ activities in 2023, ranging from operations and training exercises to seminars, conferences, and administrative tasks. The former GOC emphasised the importance of occasional relaxation and celebration, citing the age-long tradition of WASA as a suitable occasion for troops to unwind.
WASA, introduced by colonial founding fathers of the West African Frontier Forces, serves to strengthen social cohesion among military personnel and their families. Major General Shoboiki congratulated the best soldiers for their achievements and encouraged others to remain steadfast in their duties for future recognition during WASA events.
The former GOC also commended Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), for his guidance, exceptional skills, and special attention to the welfare of officers and soldiers. General Shoboiki acknowledged the COAS’s commitment to professionalism, training, and the well-being of personnel.
In addition to recognising the troops, Major General PE Eromosele, the Commander of the Corps of Engineers, highlighted the successes of the troops in 2023, including Exercise CLEAN SWEEP, which involved the recovery and detonation of over 2000 unexploded ordnances at the site of the 2002 bomb blast in Ikeja Cantonment.
Major General MT Usman, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division NA, underscored the significance of WASA in celebrating African heritage, promoting regimentation, and strengthening bonds among personnel and their families. The GOC commended officers and soldiers for their successful year and noted that WASA provides an opportunity for relaxed interaction after a hectic year.
The event featured cultural dances, a tug of war, souvenirs and awards presentation, and the Beating of the Retreat, culminating in the lighting of the bonfire.
Overall, the WASA 2023 served as a platform to acknowledge the troops’ accomplishments, foster camaraderie, and celebrate the collective achievements of the Nigerian Army in maintaining peace and security in the region.
Former GOC 1 Division Commends Troops for Securing Lagos
