177 Guards Battalion Organizes West African Social Activities (WASA) in 2024
By Roseline Okafor, Nasarawa State
The 177 Guards Battalion at Shittu Alao Barracks in Keffi, Nasarawa State, successfully hosted its annual West African Social Activities (WASA) for 2024. This event celebrates the Nigerian Army’s cultural heritage and marks the end of its operational and training year.
The colourful event, which took place at the Battalion Parade Ground, was attended by a wide array of dignitaries from diverse sectors. The Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, represented the State Governor, His Excellency Abdullahi Sule, who served as the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH).
Other distinguished guests included the Commander, 4 Special Forces Command, Major General H.E. Nzan; Commander, Guards Brigade, Brigadier General A.O. Onasanya; notable traditional rulers such as the Andoma of Doma, Aliyu Ogah Onawo; the Bassa Traditional Ruler, Chief Tukura; renowned automotive designer Mr. Jelani Aliyu; as well as prominent politicians and business leaders.
In his opening remarks, Colonel Auwalu Baba Inuwa, Commanding Officer of the 177 Guards Battalion, underscored the significance of WASA as a cornerstone of the Nigerian Army’s tradition, highlighting its role in uniting officers, soldiers, and their families while celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
“This long-standing tradition fosters unity and camaraderie among troops while showcasing the diversity of our nation’s cultural heritage. It is a celebration of our collective achievements and a reminder of the strength we derive from our diversity,” Col. Inuwa remarked.
Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, the Nasarawa State Governor’s representative and Special Guest of Honour, commended the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to security and crime-fighting in Nasarawa State and beyond. He urged continued dedication and announced a generous donation of six million naira to support future WASA events and improve security personnel welfare.
Global Times Nigeria maintained that the occasion featured a diverse array of vibrant activities, including the presentation of cultural dishes at various company stands and captivating performances by cultural troupes representing tribes such as Fulani, Gbayi, Mada, and Yoruba. These performances enthralled the audience with traditional dances and highlighted Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity.
A significant aspect of the celebration was the recognition and awards ceremony acknowledging officers and soldiers who showcased exemplary performance in their operational and training duties throughout 2024, thus enabling the Battalion to achieve its mission objectives. Moreover, the Battalion recognized traditional rulers, including the Andoma of Doma and Chief Tukura, for their crucial contributions to regional peace and security initiatives.
The ceremony drew to a close with the ceremonial beating of retreat and the lighting of a campfire, symbolizing unity and camaraderie among the troops. The 2024 WASA was a resounding success, highlighting the Battalion’s dedication to celebrating cultural diversity and fostering community spirit.
The event, attended by dignitaries including the Nasarawa State Governor’s representative, traditional rulers and politicians, featured traditional dances, local cuisines, and cultural displays, fostering social bonds among military personnel and their families while promoting peaceful coexistence among diverse ethnic groups.
