The 301 Artillery Regiment General Support Gombe, on Saturday hosted the 2024 West African Social Activities at the old barracks in Gombe State, with the Commander, Colonel Abubakar Mohammed, calling for increased collaboration between the army and civil populace to tackle insecurity.
“The strength of the military is not only through the barrel of the weapon but the cooperation of the host community,” Mohammed emphasized. “Residents should continue to pray for us and give us the needed cooperation. The people are accommodating and welcoming.”
Mohammed noted that the unit is in charge of internal security in Gombe State, working with Operation Haddi Kai and Operation Safe Heaven, covering the borders of Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, and Bauchi.
The WASA event featured various activities, including a tug-of-war, troupe presentations across ethnic groups, and a dance performance by barrack children.
Mohammed described WASA as “a day set aside where soldiers will have a relaxed atmosphere to mingle with the host community, well-wishers, and friends to celebrate a day like this.”
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hara Foam, Emmanuel Ugwu, praised the army for celebrating its officers, saying, “WASA has been a long tradition of the Nigeria Army and it has a lot of symbols. It helps them interact with civilians and brings them together. Secondly, it helps to present gifts and encourage gallant soldiers for a job well done.”
Ugwu who was Guest of Honour harped the importance of encouraging security personnel, stating, “Many times when you encourage people, they tend to do more. We appeal to sister security agencies to do the same. Security has to do with individual efforts, and it will yield good results.”
The 2024 WASA committee chairman, Lieutenant Colonel Tonye Ibiama, commended the Commander for the opportunity, highlighting that this year’s activities showcased cultural activities from ethnic groups.
