The participants of Course 9/2025 of the Army War College, Nigeria, through a colourful, well-coordinated, and intellectually stimulating International Cultural Day have demonstrated the significance of togetherness, illustrating that despite boundaries created by colonial masters, African countries are one and the same people.
At the 2025, International Cultural Day, organised by participants of Course 9/2025 of the Army War College, Nigeria, the special Guest of Honour, the Chief of Special Services and Programs, (Army), Major General Jamal Abdu-Salam, said that the boundaries that West African countries shared today are just artificial boundaries that were drawn by the colonial masters who came here initially.
"We are all one and the same people. It is also worth observing how the college continues to use these platforms to strengthen the ties between the emphasis of Nigeria and those of our allies.
He said these relationships, not short in terms of peace, often form the backdrop of cooperation in times of crisis.
"Today's celebratory emphasis is collective reserves to build bridges across borders and uphold the ideals of unity through diversity. As we conclude this event, I encourage all participants to carry forward the lessons of openness, collaboration, and cultural appreciation.
"These values will serve you well in your professional military careers and in your roles as strategic leaders and future policy makers," he stressed
Maj. Gen Abdu-Salam said today's occasion was not merely a cultural festival,, but a clear demonstration of strategic communication, cooperation and understanding across national and international boundaries.
"Such values are central to professional military education in this era of complex and interconnected security challenges. As someone who had the privilege of serving as a pioneer faculty member, and later as the director of studies of this great institution,
"I am deeply gratified to witness the growth and refinement of the international day concepts over the years. What began as a modest initiative has matured into a flagship event that reflects the college's strategic vision and commitment to Western multinational funds," he said
Major General Abdul-Salam pointed out that the cultural displays, traditional cuisines, music, and heritage exhibitions experienced today have not only a license of the rich diversity of the participating nations.
"Republic of Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Chad, The Gambia, and Liberia also serve as a reminder that beneath our unique identity lies a shared commitment to peace, security, and mutual respect. From the cuisines and cultural artifacts displayed, I am sure you all realize that all of us, irrespective of which country we come from, are all the same," he said
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Commandant, Army War College, Nigeria, Major General Umar Muhammed Alkali said the colourful and insightful event featured displays of music, attire, artifacts, and the spirit of brotherhood that divides their shared commitment to peace and security on the continent.
He said the inclusive force has strengthened professional military education at the Army War College in Nigeria. So far, the College has proudly trained and graduated officers from over 11 countries in Africa.
He noted that the International Day is a significant feature of the College's higher military strategy and management costs.
Maj General Alkali said the International Cultural Day is designed to broaden participants' strategic and military, strategic and cultural understanding, foster international command area, and promote cross-cultural dialogue.
"For Course 9/2025, we are privileged to host allied officers from the Republic of Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Chad, The Gambia, and Liberia. These officers have trained alongside their Nigerian counterparts since the course commenced on the first of January this year.
"This year's International Day is a celebration of our unity and diversity. It provides a unique platform for allied participants to showcase the rich history, traditions, cuisine, and military heritage of their countries. In equal measure, it offers them the opportunity to experience the vibrant cultural tapestry of Nigeria's six geopolitical zones," he sai
He urged participants of Course 9/2025 and other invited guests to embrace the spirit of learning, sharing, and celebration as we celebrate the cultural and strategic beauty of our diverse nations.
SpyeTV News reports that, dignitries present were representatives of Director General and Land Forces Simulation Center, and DGs of other services, heads of Nigerian Army establishments, the Commander Guards Brigade, Deputy Commandant, Director of Studies of all War College of Nigeria, Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Defense Attaches and Advisors, and other esteemed members of the diplomatic call from our allied nations, Directors, Members of Internal and External Faculty, military senior officers, spouses of participants of course 9/2025 of the Army War College, officers and civilian staff of the college.
