By Nicholas Dechi
The Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME), Maj. Gen. Idongesit Ekpenyong, has urged remembrance of fallen colleagues, who paid the supreme price in defence of Nigeria..
Ekpenyong stressed the need for continued prayers as well as support for the families of these fallen heroes.
He made the call during the celebration of the 2025 West African Social Activities (WASAÂ held on Saturday in Makurdi.
He explained that the WASA remained a core tradition of the Nigerian Army that reinforces its values, heritage and sense of community, among personnel and their families.
According to him, the annual celebration provided a platform for officers and soldiers to interact freely with their commanders, display Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and unwind after a demanding year of military duties.
He emphasised that WASA also served as an avenue to recognise and reward hardworking personnel, noting that such recognition helped to strengthen the culture of discipline, dedication and excellence within the Army.
According to him, the activities and outlook of NASME were firmly guided by the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy, which sought to build a well-motivated and combat-ready force, capable of discharging its constitutional responsibilities.
He urged officers and soldiers of NASME to remain disciplined, loyal and law-abiding in order to align fully with the leadership vision of the Nigerian Army and the Corps of Engineers.
In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, retired Brig. Gen. Atom Kpera, said that WASA originated from the era of the West African Frontier Force, as a means for soldiers to ease the stress of military campaigns through cultural expression and social interaction.
Kpera noted that the Nigerian Army’s constitutional role in safeguarding the nation and deepening democratic values must remain the central focus of all personnel.
He warned against allowing the military to be used for actions capable of destabilising the country.
He commended military families for their patience and understanding, acknowledging the sacrifices they make as soldiers were deployed to high-risk operations across different theatres of the country.
In a vote of thanks, the Rector of the Nigerian Army College of Environmental Science and Technology, Col. O.D. Bamiteko, expressed gratitude to senior military leadership, dignitaries, families and partners.
He described their support and presence, as critical to the success of the WASA 2025 gathering. NAN
