By Inusa Ndahi, Maiduguri
THE Theatre Commander Joint Task Force ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ North East, Major General Shuaibu Waidi has Pledged that the Military is poist to decimate all remnants of Boko Haram terrorists from the region.
The Theatre Commander stated this in his welcome address on Saturday during celebration of the 2023 West African Social Activities (WASA) which took place at the 212 Battalion Parade Ground, Maimalari Cantonment, 7 Division, Nigerian Army in Maiduguri, Borno State capital.
He said, the Command has been receiving the desired support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Toaheed Lagbaja since he assumed office three weeks ago.
He enumerated some of the supports to include; provision of sophisticated war equipments, upward review of troops allowances and welfare in boosting their morales, nothing that, he is optimistic that his troops would soon end the menace of terrorism, kidnapping and other social vices affecting the North Eastern states.
This is even as he said, the window of opportunity is still open for other terrorists to repent and embrace the ‘Operation Safe Haven’ corridor for their onward reintegration into the society.
His words” I want to inform this gathering that the Nigerian Military with support for other security agencies and all stakeholders are poist to decimate all remnants of Boko Haram terrorists from the region.
“Even though, the window of opportunity is still open for other terrorists to repent and embrace the ‘Operation Safe Haven’ corridor for their onward reintegration into the society or face defeat”. Waidi said.
Commenting on WASA, he said, it is an annual regimental event which bring in officers and men of the Nigerian Army to collectively celebrate cultural display and dances from all cultural and ethnic groups across the country, and to signify peaceful atmosphere.
According to him, “WASA day was an opportunity for officers and soldiers to mingle, revisit their traditions and culture, and we are determined to maintain this tradition”.
He further stressed that the day was a pointer to the resolve and determination of the Nigerian Army to create an avenue to socialize with fellow soldiers, families and associates, members of the Civil Society Organizations, CSOs. Adding that it is an integral part of activities in the Nigerian Army annually.
In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, Governor Babagana Zulum, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Bukar Tijani appreciated the Theatre Commander and the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 – Division, Maimalari Cantonment, Brigadier General Abubakar Haruna as well as troops in the Frontline for their sacrifices and commitments which have led to the gradual return of peace in the region.
He therefore assured of Government continuous support to the Nigerian Military and other security agencies in the fight against terrorists.
The SSG personally donated some undisclosed amount of cash for wives of soldiers who won against female soldiers in the Tug of War competition.
Highlights of the occasion were cultural dances and display by Theatre Command Dancers, Maimalari Cultural Dancers, Igala, Idoma, Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba, Chibok, Babur Bura and other ethnic/tribal groups with presentation of gifts and souvenirs.
