Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has urged officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army to remain professional, disciplined and loyal to the ideals of service, honour and sacrifice as they look ahead to the 2026 operational year.
Governor Otti gave the charge during the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 celebration held at the Goodluck Ebere Jonathan Barracks, Ohafia, headquarters of the 14 Brigade, with the theme “Celebrating Our Cultural Heritage.”
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, assured the officers and men that the Abia State Government and its people stand firmly with them, noting that the annual WASA provides a fitting conclusion to a demanding operational year.
According to him, throughout 2025, officers and soldiers of the 14 Brigade remained steadfast in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities, contributing significantly to the peace, security and stability of Abia State and the country at large.
He said their sacrifices, discipline, professionalism and patriotism had not gone unnoticed, adding, “On behalf of His Excellency, the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, I extend our profound appreciation to the Nigerian Army, particularly the leadership and personnel of the 14 Brigade, Ohafia, for your unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.”
Governor Otti stated that Abia State continues to enjoy relative peace due to the vigilance and readiness of the Army to respond to security challenges.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, we thank you for sustaining the tempo. We appreciate the Army, the WASA officers and our troops for creating this opportunity to unwind, celebrate the year’s activities and reconnect with loved ones after months of selfless service. I commend the Brigade Commander, officers, soldiers and all those who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this colourful and memorable event,” he said.
He added that the rich cultural displays showcased at the event reflected the diversity, unity and strength that define the Nigerian Army.
“Once again, I congratulate the 14 Brigade, Ohafia, on a successful 2025 operational year and a well-deserved WASA celebration. God bless the Nigerian Army, God bless Abia State and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the governor stated.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General H.M. Bello, explained that WASA is a revered Nigerian Army social tradition aimed at bringing officers, soldiers and their families together in a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate achievements of the outgoing year and to refocus on tasks and challenges ahead.
He said the event usually showcases the nation’s rich cultural heritage and provides an opportunity to appreciate troops for their contributions.
Bello disclosed that the origin of WASA dates back to the British colonial army era, when recruits with diverse traditional backgrounds joined the military, a tradition the Nigerian Army has sustained to foster unity, discipline and confidence among troops.
The Brigade Commander noted that continuous operations within the Brigade’s area of responsibility had drastically reduced security threats and restored public confidence, assuring that the Brigade would continue to discharge its constitutional duties with loyalty and responsiveness to constituted authorities.
He said the Brigade’s synergy with other security agencies remained unwavering, adding that sustained aggressive patrols and joint operations had significantly degraded criminal activities in Abia State.
The Brigade Commander described 2025 as a very successful year for the 14 Brigade, expressing gratitude to God for preserving the lives of officers and soldiers despite prevailing security challenges nationwide. He urged officers and soldiers to remain focused and resilient as they commence another training year, while also appealing to families and well-wishers not to relent in their support.
Bello explained that WASA is characterized by social, cultural, musical and regimental displays by troops and their families, while also providing a platform for public interaction and appreciation of the barracks community’s unique customs and traditions.
He expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. W. Shuaibu, for his continuous support and leadership, which he said had positively influenced the command and contributed to the successes recorded by the Brigade under the GOC 82 Division, Major General O.A. Fadaro.
The Brigade Commander also thanked special guests of honour, dignitaries, sister security agencies and other partners for their support, expressing optimism that 2026 would be even more rewarding.
“On behalf of officers and soldiers of the 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, I welcome all our guests to the 2025 Combined WASA. Please relax and enjoy the moments as they unfold,” he said, while reassuring Governor Otti of the Brigade’s unwavering resolve to ensure peace and security in Abia State and its environs.
The event featured inspection of native foods, traditional dances, presentation of gifts and awards, as well as a tug-of-war competition.
Government officials, traditional rulers, sister security agencies, friends and family members of the Nigerian Army were in attendance.
