401 Special Forces Brigade Marks WASA 2025, Reaffirms Commitment To National Peace, Discipline
The 401 Special Forces Brigade Nigerian Army on Saturday 24 January 2026, celebrated its Joint West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 at the Joe Akaahan Cantonment Makurdi, in a colourful ceremony attended by officers, soldiers and their families, host communities and invited guests.
The annual event, which marks the end of the year’s activities and prepares personnel for the year ahead, was graced by the Force Commander Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Major General Moses Kolo Gara mni, as the Special Guest of Honour.
In his remarks, Maj Gen Gara traced the origin of WASA to the era of the West African Frontier Force (WAFF), noting that it was introduced to ease the stress of military campaigns and promote unity through cultural expression. He reminded personnel of the constitutional role of the Nigerian Army in safeguarding democracy and maintaining national peace and security, stressing that no soldier should allow himself to be used to destabilize the country.
The Force Commander commended military families for their patience and sacrifices, while acknowledging the efforts of troops engaged in operations against insurgents, bandits and other security threats across the country. He also expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones in the line of duty.
in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s vision which is “To Advance the Transformation of the NA into a more Professional, Adaptable, Combat Ready and Resilient Force Capable of Decisively Discharging it’s Constitutional Responsibilities within a Joint and Multi-agency Environment”, he emphasized discipline as the backbone of the Nigerian Army, urging officers and soldiers to shun illegal activities capable of tarnishing the image of the service. He further appreciated civilian partners for their support and encouraged continued collaboration between the military, security agencies and the civil populace to promote peace.
While appreciating the Commander 401 Special Forces Brigade/Sector 1 OPWS, Brig Gen KO Bukoye and the Commanding Officer 72 Special Forces Battalion, Lt Col SI Agwom for organizing a successful WASA event, General Gara commended officers, soldiers and their families for their dedication in 2025 and expressed optimism for a successful 2026.
The event featured colourful cultural performances, displays of traditional cuisines and the presentation of awards to soldiers who distinguished themselves during the year 2025, as well as to invited guests.
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