Military Tradition Meets Cultural Splendour: Jaji Military Cantonment Hosts Landmark 2025 Combined WASA
In a magnificent display of “esprit de corps” and national heritage, the Jaji Military Cantonment came alive on Saturday, January 31, 2025, for the Combined West African Social Activities (WASA). Held at the AVM SA Dambo Sports Complex, the event served as a prestigious closing chapter to the 2025 training year and also ushering the activities of the new year, uniting the diverse military units stationed within the Jaji community.
The air was filled with the sounds of traditional drums and the sight of vibrant regalia as senior military officers, soldiers, and their families gathered to uphold a tradition that dates back to the colonial era of the West African Frontier Force.
The Special Guest of Honour, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim (Rtd) OFR, expressed immense pride in the professionalism displayed by the participating troops. During his remarks, he described the Combined WASA as a vital strategic platform that transcends mere celebration, acting as a bridge that connects the rigid hierarchy of military life with the essential support systems of the family unit. ”The unity and collective spirit we see here today are the very qualities required on the battlefield,” General Ibrahim remarked. He issued a stirring charge to the personnel, urging them to remain steadfast, disciplined, and united in the nation’s ongoing struggle against terrorism and banditry. He emphasized that the security of Nigeria rests on the continued cooperation and unwavering resolve of its armed forces.
Earlier in the ceremony, the Chief Host and Commander Infantry Corps (CIC), Major General Godwin Mutkut OFR, highlighted the social significance of the event. He noted that in the high-pressure environment of the Infantry, WASA provides a necessary “purposeful relaxation” that strengthens the bonds between officers and their subordinates. Serving as a “veritable avenue” to showcase the rich, multi-ethnic tapestry of Nigeria. Building mutual respect among personnel from different regional backgrounds. Recognizing the sacrifices of soldiers and their families to ensure high operational effectiveness. Thereafter, he thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM for his strategic guidance and also for releasing the fund for the celebration of this auspicious social-regimental events.
The 2025 edition was a massive logistical undertaking, representing a joint effort between several elite military institutions domiciled in the Cantonment, including: Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre, Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Warrant Officers’ Academy, 4 Demonstration Battalion and 601 Aviation Battalion.
The festivities featured a “tour of formation stands,” where guests sampled a wide array of African cuisines, followed by elegant cultural dances and high-energy unarmed combat displays. The competitive spirit reached its peak during the tug-of-war contest, which pitted different units against one another in a test of pure strength and teamwork.
As the sun began to set, the event moved toward its solemn and historic conclusion. The presentation of awards honoured soldiers who had distinguished themselves through exemplary service and bravery over the past year. This was followed by the Beating of the Retreat, a centuries-old military tradition marking the end of the day’s duties, and the lighting of the traditional bonfire, which illuminated the grounds as a symbol of warmth, victory, and the enduring light of the Nigerian Army.
Brigadier General MA Tijjani, Chief of Staff of the Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre, delivered the vote of thanks, praising the organizers and the families for their turnout, which he noted was a testament to the strong community spirit within the Jaji Military Cantonment
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