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The Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Rt Hon Barr Simon Bako Lalong has commended troops of 3 Division Nigerian Army for restoring peace and creating an enabling environment for cultural activities to thrive in the state.
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 3 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Ishaku Takwa in a press statement said, the Governor stated this on Saturday 18 February 2023 during the celebration of year 2022 West African Social Activities (WASA) held at 3 Division Physical Training Ground, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment Jos.
He said the Governor commended the Nigerian Army for promoting and projecting the reach cultural heritage of Nigeria through its annual celebration of WASA which showcases cultural dances and other artistic displays.
He further appreciated all other security agencies, traditional rulers as well as the people of Plateau State for their efforts at ensuring peace, adding that the military could not have done it alone without their support and cooperation.
The Governor who was represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Major General Augustine Agundu retired, disclosed that the State will continue to support the military and other security agencies in the state to ensure that the state lives up to its slogan of being the “Home of Peace and Tourism.”
He further noted that the Plateau was able to host the Festival of Art and Culture and other cultural activities across the state as a result of the current peace being enjoyed in the state.
He called on all stakeholders to support the military and other security agencies in the fight against all forms of violence and criminalities in state. This he said will accelerate development and encourage the sustenance of cultural activities in plateau state.
Speaking earlier during his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Maj Gen Abdulsalami Ibrahim said “ he is pleased with the level of cooperation among security agencies and members of the public in the state.”
Adding that peace is very dear to all and urged the people of the state as well as stakeholders to continue to work together for peace and development.
He reiterated his determination to ensure peace in the Division area of responsibility. Maj Gen Ibrahim disclosed that on assumption of command, he visited and had discussions with key stakeholders within Plateau, Bauchi, Taraba Adamawa and part of Southern Kaduna states toward sustaining peace in the states.
He expressed his delight to see personnel of the Nigerian Army, their families and the people of Plateau State in a friendly atmosphere to celebrate and display their unique and rich cultural heritage.
He further added that troops’ welfare and reward of hard work form an integral part of his command. This no doubt was evident as the occasion was used to reward personnel who distinguished themselves in the professional discharge of their duties. While the neatest blocks in Phase One and Phase Two in the Cantonment were also rewarded with cows and cash prizes to further encourage good hygiene in the Cantonment.
He also used the opportunity to appreciate the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya CFR for his support, motivation, exemplary and transformational leadership to the Nigerian Army which he described as a key factor in the successes so far recorded in the Division’s area of responsibility.
Highlights of the event were cultural performances by various cultural troupes and unique Quarter Guard drill display by soldiers wives (Magajiyas) as well as highly entertaining Tug of War contests which featured personnel of the Federal Fire Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps. Other are soldiers wives and National Youth Corps Members. The event also witnessed presentation souvenirs to dignitaries, beating of the retreat and lightning of the Camp Fire.
Dignitaries at the occasion includes heads of security agencies on the Plateau, commanders from other services, Principal Staff Officers as well as Commanders and Commanding Officers of 3 Division and Operational SAFE HAVEN. Others includes heads of government agencies and departments and retired senior officers as well as traditional and community leaders.
