The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, on Saturday hailed the Nigerian Army as a living symbol of Nigeria’s unity in diversity, describing it as the very identity of the nation. Musa made the remarks at the 75th Army Headquarters Departments and Commands West African Social Activities (WASA) in Abuja, marking the end of the 2025 training year.
Represented by his Special Assistant on Special Duties, retired Maj.-Gen. Henry Wesley, the minister emphasized that the army uniquely reflects Nigeria’s ethnic, cultural, and religious diversity. “The Nigerian Army is a microcosm of the Nigerian state. There is hardly any institution where the cultures and traditions of our people are as widely represented,” he said.
Musa added that WASA provides a platform to celebrate the shared heritage of personnel, strengthening unity, cohesion, and national identity within the ranks. He also extended gratitude to troops deployed across operational theatres for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and democracy.
The minister reaffirmed the loyalty of the Armed Forces to President Bola Tinubu and commended his commitment to the welfare of service personnel and their families. He urged officers and soldiers to continue upholding core military values with professionalism and honour.
Maj.-Gen. Maxwell Dangana, Commander of Army Headquarters Garrison, described WASA as one of the Nigerian Army’s most enduring traditions, dating back to the Second World War. The event featured cultural displays, traditional dances, tug of war contests, and recognition awards for soldiers who excelled during the year.
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