Obiano wines and unwinds with Nigerian Army at Onitsha

 

www.odogwublog.com reports that Governor Willie Obiano has assured the officers of Military Cantonment, Onitsha of continual assistance and co-operation of his administration to ensure that Anambra State maintains her position as one of the safest State in Nigeria.
The governor who was ably represented by his Special Adviser on Security affairs Mr. Chikaodili Anara gave the assurance during the occasion of the West African Social Activities (WASA) held recently at the military cantonment, Onitsha.
Governor Obiano said he was happy to felicitate with Col. I. U. Akpan, Commander 302 Artillery (GS) Onitsha and his colleague Lt. Col. A. S. Saleh, Commanding officer 14 FER, Onitsha and the rest of the officers, men and families of military cantonment, Onitsha during the WASA celebration to mark the end of the year 2016 and beginning of year 2017.
“Year 2016 was quite eventful with host of activities and challenges for all of us in Anambra state. Thanks to the Almighty God, whose special grace guaranteed our successful and peaceful transition from year 2016 to 2017.  I salute you all, the military cantonment in Onitsha is one of the most important government institution in this state and constitutes one of the main focal point of interest for Anambra State government”, said Obiano.
“We appreciate the efforts of the officers and soldiers of this cantonment who has worked tirelessly in conjunction with other security agencies to preserve peace and security in Anambra state. I assure you that we would continue to extend assistance to support the troops and families in this cantonment”, said Obiano
Earlier in his address the Commander 302 Artillery (GS) Onitsha, Col. I. U. Akpan expressed his profound gratitude to all present for gracing the occasion, saying that they do sincerely cherish the comradeship, support and community relations between the barracks community, members of the contiguous communities and the entire state.
Col. Akpan said that WASA provides opportunity for stock taking of events & activities army, foster spirit-de-corps among the troops and was a veritable forum for promotion of community relations between barracks and their neighbours.
“WASA dates back to the days of the West African Frontier Forces (WAFF) during the colonial era. The army is made up of personal from different ancestral and cultural background. So, in those days during harvest, village leads sought for the release of their people to join in the yearly sacrifices to their gods for a peaceful and prosperous year. However, instead of releasing the soldiers for rituals, the military resolved to incorporate the social activities and christened it as WASA. The activities include traditional dancing presentation, tug of war, bonfire, gifts presentation etc.
Moreover, Col. Akpan said that the Nigerian Army continues to evolve as a potential tool for national building recorded lots of successes.
“A lot of successes were recorded by the 2 units in 2016. They include excellent performances in competitions and exercise at unit, formation and army levels. We have resolved to do better in 2017. On our part, I assure you that we shall continue to diligently perform our assigned tasks in Anambra state. I salute you all. His Excellency, governor of Anambra state, security agencies and other paramilitary establishments for all your support and co-operation,’ said Col. Akpan.
Special guests that graced the occasion include: Chief Goddy Okeke - Chairman GUO group; Chief Godwin D. Enem – Eastern Zonal Cordinator CHISCO group; Chief Collins Edem (GON) Mopol Nigeria chairman W&S Mess, Onitsha.

STORY BY UZO UGWUNZE, OJOTO