The Nigerian Army’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to unity were on full display on Saturday, January 10, as the 103 Battalion, Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government Area, hosted the 2025 edition of the West African Social Activity (WASA).
Speaking at the colourful event, the Commanding Officer of 103 Battalion Main, Lt. Col. Waheed Shittu, represented by the Commanding Officer Rear, Major Buhari Abdurahman, described WASA as a timeless military tradition that reflects the identity, values, and diversity of the Nigerian Army.
“I am privileged to warmly welcome you to Okunanubarak’s parade ground, the venue for the West African Social Activity, WASA,” Major Abdurahman said. “The Nigerian Army is very unique because it is rich with traditions that reflect who we are as a people.”
He explained that WASA, observed annually by the Army, draws from Nigeria’s cultural heritage and traditions inherited from colonial times, helping soldiers remain connected to their roots while professionally discharging their constitutional responsibilities.
According to him, WASA dates back to the Second World War, when indigenous Nigerian soldiers serving under the West African Frontier Force celebrated their cultures at the end of each year. “Instead of releasing soldiers yearly to perform these rituals, the military authorities incorporated the tradition into the Army and named it WASA,” he noted.
Major Abdurahman said the event provides a relaxed atmosphere for officers, soldiers, and their families after a demanding training year, adding that the 2025 celebration featured cultural dances, exhibition of local cuisines from across the country, tug-of-war contests, beating of retreat, and the lighting of a ceremonial campfire.
Former Governor of Enugu State and Special Guest of Honour, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, commended the Nigerian Army for sustaining WASA as a platform for preserving Nigeria’s cultural diversity and strengthening bonds among personnel and their families.
“This event is a tradition the Nigerian Army organises annually to celebrate and appreciate the unique and rich cultural heritage of the diverse tribes of our great country,” Ugwuanyi said. “It is an avenue to keep culture alive, especially since we rarely spend time in our native communities.”
Reflecting on the past year, the former governor praised the resilience of 103 Battalion in the face of security challenges within its Area of Responsibility. “Although there were some attacks, I am glad to note that 103 Battalion has been able to weather the storm and has emerged much stronger and more focused,” he stated.
Ugwuanyi described the event as “very successful and well organised,” urging the battalion to sustain its standards as a custodian of the Army’s ethnic customs and traditions. He also applauded the cultural performers, singling out female soldiers and barracks women for special commendation.
“I was pleasantly surprised by the display from our barracks women, and I sincerely appreciate them,” he said, while congratulating award winners and encouraging all personnel to remain disciplined and committed to duty.
He further reminded the troops of their motto, “Fire-Spitting Dragon,” urging them to remain vigilant, resilient, and agile in safeguarding national security. “Your individual sacrifices will add up to the overall success of 103 Battalion and the security of Nigeria,” Ugwuanyi added.
Also speaking, Chairman of Oji River Local Government Area, Mr. Greg Anyaegbudike, described the event as a reflection of Nigeria’s diversity and unity. “The Army is a national organisation made up of over 350 ethnic groups. What we are seeing here is a mini Nigeria inside 103 Battalion,” he said.
Anyaegbudike praised the strong relationship between the military and the local government, noting that it has contributed significantly to security in the area. “Oji River is one of the safest local governments in the state, and we truly appreciate the support, intelligence, and swift response of the military,” he said.
The event attracted top military officers and dignitaries, including the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Maj. Gen. Oluyemi Fadairo, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Brig. Gen. Saka Jimoh, as well as traditional rulers, clergy, community leaders, and other guests.
The 2025 WASA celebration at 103 Battalion once again underscored the Nigerian Army’s commitment to unity in diversity, cultural preservation, and strengthened civil-military relations.
