Tinubu Urges Sustained Efforts By Guards Brigade In Securing FCT

President Bola Tinubu has commended the Commander, Guards Brigade, Nigerians Army, its officers and soldiers for sustaining clearance operations and  restoring peace in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and adjoining communities .

He gave the commendation at the West African Social Activities (WASA) organised by the Brigade in Abuja yesterday.

Tinubu who was represented by the Minister of Defence General Christopher Musa (rtd) said while the event which celebrates feats achieved by officers and soldiers through force cohesion, resilience and dedication also allows them to unwind.

He said, “There is no doubt that in Year 2025, the Guards Brigade reinforced security around the Presidential Villa and improved security situation in the FCT and its environs.

“The effort of the Brigade in sustaining clearance operations and restoring peace in the adjoining communities has significantly contributed to the peace we all enjoy in the FCT. Therefore, having worked and trained so hard throughout the year, I make bold to say that the celebration of officers, soldiers and their families through this excellent and well organized WASA is a laudable effort.

“I am confident that the Guards Brigade will always rise to the challenges of all its tasks and keep the flag of the Nigerian Army flying at all times. I believe that your dedication to duty will encourage and motivate other soldiers elsewhere to emulate your attitude to duty.

“I also thank you all, not just for your service to this great country but for reminding us why Nigeria will always be a great nation.”

The president further commended  other  security agencies for their relentless efforts in ensuring that the

Commander of the Brigade, Brig.- Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, said WASA is an age-long tradition of the Nigerian Army designed to enhance regimentation, foster comradeship and strengthen the bond among officers, soldiers and their families.

He said it is an annual event that provides a relaxed and convivial atmosphere to celebrate the end of the year and usher in the activities of the new year, while showcasing the rich cultural diversity of Nigerian Army personnel and our host communities.

He explained that the origin of WASA historically dates back to the era of the West African Frontier Force, when soldiers drawn from different ancestral and traditional backgrounds joined the army.

“In those days, village heads sent delegations to military authorities to request the release of soldiers to participate in annual sacrifices marking the end of harvest and the beginning of a new planting season, with prayers for peace and prosperity in the new year. Over time, rather than releasing soldiers annually, the military authorities incorporated this tradition into army activities, giving birth to what we now celebrate as WASA,”.

He noted that personnel of the Guards Brigade over the past 12 months have undergone rigorous operational and training engagements.

“These include the critical responsibility of securing the Presidency, the Federal Capital Territory and its environs, dominating our area of responsibility day and night, conducting major operations, and participating in national ceremonial duties such as Armed Forces Remembrance Day and other state functions. These demanding tasks were carried out alongside routine internal security operations, often keeping our officers and soldiers away from their families for extended periods,”.

This he said is despite the absence of their loved ones, our families have remained resilient, patient and steadfast, continuously supporting the Brigade through prayers, understanding and perseverance.

He  reaffirmed the unwavering loyalty of the Guards Brigade to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and our steadfast commitment to the Nigerian Army in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy.