By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, has described the West Africa Social Activities (WASA) of th...
By Abdullahi Idris, Dutse
Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, has described the West Africa Social Activities (WASA) of the Nigerian Army as a cherished and unifying tradition that strengthens civil–military relations and promotes national cohesion.
Governor Namadi made the remarks while attending the 2025 edition of WASA organised by the Nigerian Army at the 26 Armoured Brigade Barracks, Yagaba, Dutse.
He expressed deep appreciation for the honour of participating in the colourful cultural event, noting that WASA remains a symbol of unity, heritage, and mutual understanding between the military and their host communities.
The governor commended the leadership and personnel of the 26 Armoured Brigade for their “remarkable achievements and collaborative efforts with other security agencies under Operation Salama,” which he said had been instrumental in combating kidnapping, cattle rustling, farmer–herder clashes, and other criminal activities across Jigawa State.
According to him, these collective efforts have significantly contributed to sustaining peace and stability in the state, resulting in visible improvements in the overall security situation.
Governor Namadi particularly applauded the officers and men of the Brigade for their exemplary leadership, dedication, discipline, and resilience, stressing that their professionalism and sacrifice, in collaboration with sister security agencies, continue to keep Jigawa State safe and secure.
“I especially commend the exemplary leadership, dedication, discipline, and resilience displayed by the officers and men of the 26 Armoured Brigade in keeping our state safe and secure, in collaboration with other security agencies. Thank you very much,” he said.
The governor also paid tribute to fallen officers and soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing them as heroes whose sacrifices would be remembered forever.
He urged military personnel to remain steadfast, resolute, and committed in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, while assuring them of the continued support of the Jigawa State Government.
Governor Namadi further expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for providing a conducive environment and the necessary equipment to enable the Armed Forces to operate effectively across the country.
Earlier in his address, the Commander of the 26 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General T. J. Mackintosh, described the presence of the governor as a great honour. He explained that WASA is an age-long tradition of the Nigerian Army, observed annually at the end of the rainy season by units and formations nationwide, with its origins dating back to the era of the West African Frontier Force.
He said the tradition was introduced to enable troops to showcase and celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, while also serving as a bridge for strengthening cohesion, mutual understanding, and cordial civil–military relations.
According to him, WASA provides a unique platform for the barracks and host communities to appreciate and participate in Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage, reflect on the year’s successes and lessons learned, and reward outstanding contributions by officers and soldiers.
Despite prevailing security challenges within the Brigade’s operational environment, Brigadier General Mackintosh said significant successes were recorded through sustained operational and administrative engagements throughout the year.
He assured that the 26 Armoured Brigade remains committed to consolidating its operational gains and maintaining a high operational tempo to ensure prompt response to emerging security challenges in Jigawa State.
The Brigade Commander also thanked Governor Namadi for his unwavering support for security initiatives, which he said had strengthened civil–military relations and promoted lasting peace and stability in the state.
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