Governor Umaru Bago of Niger has donated N50 million to support Nigerian Army officers’ wives’ associations in the state.

Mr Bago made the donation as a special guest of honour at the West Africa Social Activities (WASA) on Saturday in Minna.

The event was organised by the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) of the Nigerian Army and the 31 Artillery Brigade.

He said the donation was to support the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) with N20 million, the Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA) with N20 million, and the organisers of the WASA with N10 million.

Mr Bago said WASA fosters unity, reintegration, and stronger civil-military relations, especially in the face of prevailing security challenges.

The governor commended officers and men of the Nigerian Army for their commitment to the security of citizens’ lives and property, adding that their sacrifices had restored peace in previously troubled areas.

“Some time ago, we could not freely go to places like Shiroro, Adunu, and Sarkin-Pawa, but today, courtesy of the Nigerian army and other security agencies, peace and calm have returned,” he said.

Mr Bago added that concerted efforts were also ongoing in Borgu and other parts of the state to ensure lasting peace and pledged continued government support to make the military’s work easier and to cater to their families.

Earlier in his welcome address, the chief host, Maj.-Gen. Peter Malla, commander, TRADOC, Nigerian Army, said the WASA celebration dated back to the era of the Royal West African Frontier Force.

He said WASA was introduced to integrate traditional festivities into military activities, foster esprit de corps, and strengthen confidence among soldiers, noting that the Nigerian army had sustained the tradition over the years.

Mr Malla explained that WASA provided a relaxed platform for service personnel and their families to interact and showcase the diverse cultural heritage of the Nigerian army.

He added that WASA is an avenue to review activities and reposition the army for improved training and operational effectiveness.

Mr Malla said the event showcased the diverse ethnic and cultural composition of the Nigerian army, as reflected in various cultural displays, and added that WASA was usually held at the beginning or end of the year.

He commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, for his continuous support for training and troop welfare.

Mr Malla assured the people of Niger of the army’s respect for human rights and the constitution and pledged sustained collaboration with the state government and other security agencies to ensure lasting peace and security.

In his remarks, Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Jimbo, commander of the 31 Artillery Brigade, pledged the brigade’s continuous commitment to the security of lives and property in the state.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Homeland Security in Niger, Maurice Magaji, described WASA as important, noting that even at the war front, troops require time to interact and unwind to reflect on challenges and proffer solutions.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to personnel and individuals who distinguished themselves.

(NAN)