*Theater Command, 7 Div organize 2023 annual WASA/NASA in Borno
By; SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri
The Theatre Commander Joint Task Force (JTF) North East Headquarters, Operation Hadin Kai’ (OPHK) Maimalari Cantonment Maiduguri, Major General Shaibu Waheed has reiterated the commitment and determination of the Nigerian military to decimate all the remnants of Boko Haram insurgents and rid them from the North East region as well as the Lake Chad region.
Gen. Waheed added that the Theater Command has been receiving all the necessary support and encouragement from the President, Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoheed A. Lagbaja and the Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum since he assumed office few weeks ago.
The Theatre Commander stated this on Saturday, during the celebration of 2023 West African/National Social Activities (WASA/NASA) held at the 212 Battalion Headquarters Parade Ground, Maimalari Cantonment, 7 Division, of the Nigerian Army Maiduguri.
He said, “WASA day all over the country, is an opportunity for officers and soldiers to mingle, revisit their traditions and culture, and we are determined to maintain this tradition.
“It is an annual regimental event which bring in officers and men of the Nigerian Army to collectively celebrate cultural display and dances from all cultural and ethnic groups across the country, and to signify peaceful atmosphere.
“This is even as the window of opportunity is still open for other terrorists to repent and embrace the ‘Operation Safe Haven’ corridor for their onward reintegration into the society.
” I want to inform this gathering that the Nigerian Military with support for other security agencies and all stakeholders are poist to decimate all remnants of Boko Haram terrorists from the region.
“Even though, the window of opportunity is still open for other terrorists to repent and embrace the ‘Operation Safe Haven’ corridor for their onward reintegration into the society or face defeat”. Waheed said.
General Waheed also highlighted briefly on some support from the federal government and defense headquarters, including the provision of additional fighting weapons, equipments, review of frontline troops allowances and welfare to boost their morale.
He further expressed optimism that his troops will soon bring to an end the insurgency fight against terrorism, issues of kidnapping, banditry and other crime bedeviling the region and country at large
According to him, WASA day is a symbol of unity, socialization and affection among and between the families and friends of the troops in operation and also as respite in strengthening relations among the troops and officers which serves annually as an avenue for the Nigerian Army to interact and socialize with each other, both the soldiers, families and friends s as well as the civil society (Civil-Militaty Relations)
Highlights of the event included dances, sings, drama, exhibitions/gallery shows , presentation of souvenirs dignitaries, donations and photographs among others.
