By SULEIMAN SHEHU

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Mai-Gen. Chinedu Nnebeife, on Saturday said that the Nigerian Army recorded huge successes in 2025, in spite of security challenges in the country.

Nnebeife disclosed this during the celebration of the 2025 West African Social Activities (WASA) of the Division on Saturday in Ibadan.

The New’ Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that WASA is an age long military function centered on showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of military personnel.

It aims at assembling officers, soldiers, and their families to unwind after the year’s work.

It is also designed to create a platform for military personnel to interact with friends, as well as members of their host communities in order to foster good Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC).

The GOC, noted that the year 2025 was challenging, adding that the Nigerian Army was at the forefront in degrading Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements.

“We have made significant strides, and for this, we are immensely grateful to Almighty God for His benevolence and the gift of life,” he said.

The GOC said that the Nigerian Army in 2025, embarked on rigorous trainings and intensive operations due to increased activities of terrorists and bandits.

“The WASA is also a platform to recognise hard work, excellence and exceptional service by deserving soldiers of the Division.

“Today, we shall honour several soldiers who distinguished themselves in the Year 2025.

“These awards are intended to further inspire others to dedicate themselves to professional standards and dedication to duties,” he said.

Nnebeife reiterated that the Army would continue to reward diligence and would not tolerate any act of indiscipline, adding that discipline remains the bedrock of the Nigerian Army.

He said that the Nigerian Army would continue to uphold highest standards at all times.

Nnebeife appreciated the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for his unwavering commitment to training, regimentation, and professionalism, as well as providing resources to host the ceremony.

He said that the Division had benefitted immensely from the COAS’s numerous welfare packages, and support for their operations.

Nnebeife thanked Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and others that have contributed to the successes recorded by the division, and appealed for continued cooperation and support in tackling crimes.

Makinde, who was Special Guest at the event, thanked the Nigerian Army for ensuring peace and security in the state.

The governor who was represented by his Special Adviser on Immigration and Homeland Security, Rosheed Adegoke, pledged the continued support of his administration to the Nigerian Army and other sister security agencies in addressing security challenges in the state.

NAN reports that dignitaries at the occasion included: representatives of heads of security agencies in the state, community leaders as well as families and relatives of military personnel.

Highlights of the occasion also included Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa and Igala cultural dances, tug of war competition, and presentation of awards to some Army personnel for their hard work. (NAN)