Permanent Secretary MOD Commends 6 Brigade During Maiden Visit, As Commander Pays Courtesy CallOn WWII Veteran In Jalingo

Permanent Secretary MOD Commends 6 Brigade During Maiden Visit, As Commander Pays Courtesy CallOn WWII Veteran In Jalingo

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, has paid a maiden courtesy visit to the Headquarters 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), on Thursday, 8 January 2026, in Jalingo, Taraba State.

During the visit, the Permanent Secretary commended the Commander, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, for his effective leadership and sustained efforts at ensuring peace and tranquility across Taraba State, particularly during the Yuletide period. He specifically appreciated the Commander’s personal presence and operational oversight during engagements in Jalingo and Jen, Karim Lamido Local Government Area, noting the positive impact on security and public confidence.

Mr. Pheelangwa further lauded the discipline, professionalism, and commitment to duty displayed by officers and soldiers of the Brigade, describing their conduct as exemplary and in line with the highest traditions of the Nigerian Army. He encouraged the formation to sustain the current operational tempo and civil-military cooperation that have contributed to curbing insecurity and unrest within the state and its environs.

In response, Brigadier General Uwa expressed profound gratitude to the Permanent Secretary for the honour of the visit. He reaffirmed the loyalty and dedication of officers and Men of 6 Brigade to the constituted authority, assuring that the formation would continue to uphold maximum discipline and professionalism in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities in Taraba State.

Earlier the same day, the Commander, 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, accompanied by officers of the Brigade, paid a courtesy call on Regimental Sergent Major (RSM) Wesley Tafida, a World War II veteran and father of Major General HT Wesley (Retired) at his residence in Jalingo, Taraba State. The distinguished veteran, aged 106 years, warmly received the delegation and expressed appreciation for the visit.

RSM Tafida commended the Commander for his leadership and steadfast commitment to securing the state. He also shared experiences from his military service, including his participation during World War II (1944–1945), where he served as a courier conveying arms and ammunition. He further disclosed that he was discharged from 93 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, Ojo Cantonment, after seven years of service as a RSM.

The twin engagements underscore the Nigerian Army’s commitment to operational excellence, institutional appreciation, and honouring the sacrifices of veterans, while sustaining peace and security in Taraba State.