The Niger State Governor, His Excellency, Farmer Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for its sustained efforts in restoring peace and safeguarding lives and property across the state, describing the military as a critical partner in ensuring security and stability.
The Governor made the pronouncement on Saturday, 17 January 2026, during the 2025 Combined West African Social Activities (WASA) celebration, hosted by the Training and Doctrine Command Nigerian Army (TRADOC NA) and 31 Artillery Brigade in Minna Military Cantonment, Niger State.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Felicia Daniel,Acting Deputy Director army public relations, Training Doctrine Command said the colourful ceremony was graced by Niger State Government, security agencies, captains of industries, traditional rulers, officers, soldiers and their families, and other dignitaries across the state.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, Niger State Governor, Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for their professionalism and sacrifices, noting that their commitment has significantly improved the security situations in several parts of the state.
He described WASA as more than a cultural festivity, adding that it serves as a vital platform for strengthening civil-military relations and fostering mutual understanding between the Army and the host communities.
The Governor commended Commanders TRADOC NA, and 31 Artillery Brigade, for successfully organising the event despite several operational commitments.Highlighting the positive impact of military operations in the state,
Governor Bago recalled that some areas, including parts of Shiroro and Munya Local Government Areas, which were previously unsafe, now records significant improvements due to the concerted efforts of the security agencies.
As a mark of appreciation, the Niger State Government made some monetary donations to the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA) and Nigerian Army Soldiers’ Wives Association (NASWA), as well as WASA Organizing Committee respectively.
While delivering the welcome address, the Commander TRADOC NA, Major General Peter Malla, expressed profound gratitude to the Governor for honouring the occasion with his esteemed presence.
The Commander also appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, for his leadership, particularly in the provision of resources aimed at enhancing training effectiveness and improving troops’ welfare across the Nigerian Army.
He urged officers and soldiers to remain disciplined, resilient, and dedicated to their constitutional responsibilities while acknowledging the indispensable roles played by military families in sustaining morale and operational success.
In his vote of thanks, the Commander 31 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Mohammed Umar Jibo, thanked Farmer Governor Mohammed Bago for gracing the occasion.
The Commander appreciated the Governor for his generous donations to NAOWA, NASWA, and the WASA Committee, noting their impact on troops’ morale and civil-military relations.
He expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, for his leadership and support. Furthermore, he commended the Commander TRADOC NA for his guidance, leadership and collaboration in hosting the event.
Brigadier Gen Jibo also appreciated the traditional rulers, dignitaries, military families, and the Minna community for their solidarity, highlighting WASA’s role in showcasing unity in diversity. He reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to defending the nation and ensuring peace and security in Niger State.
The ceremony featured a variety of cultural displays, traditional performances from various geopolitical zones and other fun activities underscoring the Nigerian Army’s unity in diversity.
