By Kingsley Omonobi

Abuja — The Nigerian Army has called on its officers and soldiers to remain steadfast and resilient in carrying out their duties, emphasizing that the nation relies on their professionalism, discipline, and sacrifice to bolster national security.

The call was made by the Military Secretary (Army), Major General Everest Okoro, during the 176 Guards Battalion West African Social Activities (WASA) on Monday at General O.A. Azazi Barracks, Gwagwalada. Represented at the event by the Deputy Military Secretary, Major General S. Sulaiman, Okoro urged personnel to uphold the Army’s core values: loyalty, selfless service, courage, discipline, integrity, and respect for others.

“I want to urge you not to rest on your laurels. The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and indeed the entire nation, count on your professionalism and sacrifice to continually improve the country’s security situation. I am confident that you will succeed,” he said.

Major General Okoro commended the battalion for its training and operational activities in 2025, highlighting completed welfare initiatives, including the renovation and furnishing of the Battalion Headquarters Complex and the electrification of the Mammy Market, describing them as key interventions that improve working conditions and economic empowerment.

The Chief Host and Commander of Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Olusegun Onasanya, described the WASA as an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices of officers and soldiers throughout the year while fostering unity, morale, and esprit de corps. He said the commissioning of the renovated headquarters and market projects demonstrated the Army’s commitment to personnel welfare and operational effectiveness.

Earlier, the Commanding Officer of 176 Guards Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Oladimeji Ajongbo, noted that the social activities were designed to promote camaraderie and support soldiers’ families, particularly spouses operating shops within the Mammy Market.

The event featured cultural troupe performances, a raffle draw, presentation of gifts and awards to outstanding soldiers, as well as the beating of the retreat and a bonfire.

The activities are part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to enhance troop morale, strengthen operational readiness, and address security challenges nationwide through leadership engagement, welfare interventions, social cohesion, and infrastructural development.