January 27, 2025
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Gbolahan Salman
The 2024 West African Social Activities (WASA) program was held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the 26 Battalion Parade Ground, Giginya Barracks, Sokoto.
The event, which celebrated cultural diversity and military achievements, attracted dignitaries, including the Special Guest of Honour, Dr. Ahmad Aliyu, Governor of Sokoto State.
In his opening remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, expressed delight in hosting the event. He highlighted the historical origins of WASA, tracing it back to 1901 during Nigeria’s integration into the West African Frontier Force. According to him, the program fosters unity, celebrates cultural heritage, and strengthens the bond between troops and their host communities.
Reflecting on the Division’s achievements in 2024, Major General Ajose described the year as both challenging and rewarding. He highlighted key accomplishments, including the establishment of the 248 Recce Battalion in Illelah, the deployment of the Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Battalion VII in Gudu, and the introduction of advanced air assets and combat enablers.
“These efforts significantly enhanced operations against banditry and terrorism within our Area of Responsibility (AOR), resulting in the neutralization of several bandit leaders and the restoration of peace and socioeconomic activities across the region,” he stated.
Major General Ajose also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General O. Oluyede, and Governor Ahmad Aliyu, whose collaboration he credited for the Division’s success. He reaffirmed the Division’s commitment to ensuring peace and security, urging personnel to maintain vigilance and professionalism.
The GOC further noted improvements in troops’ welfare and infrastructure. Projects completed in 2024 included the asphalting of a 1-km road in Giginya Cantonment and the renovation of residential blocks for soldiers and their families.
He assured attendees that the Division would continue to align with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy to maintain a well-motivated and combat-ready force.
As the event unfolded, cultural displays and the traditional beating of retreat added color to the festivities. The GOC expressed gratitude to the families of troops for their support and sacrifices, urging everyone to enjoy the celebration, which he described as a reflection of shared accomplishments and resilience.
Governor Ahmad Aliyu, represented by the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd), commended the Nigerian Army for its operational successes. He assured attendees that his administration would continue to support the military and other security agencies to achieve lasting peace across the state.
The 2024 WASA celebration underscored the 8 Division’s dedication to its core values of service, camaraderie, and cultural integration, while further solidifying its role in safeguarding national security.

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