Colonel Abubakar Mohammed, the commander of the 301 Artillery Regiment General Support in Gombe, has urged increased cooperation between the armed forces and citizens to improve security and safeguard people’s lives and property in the state.
Mohammed made this plea at the 2024 West African Social Activities celebration held at the former barracks in Gombe State on Saturday.
Every year, officers and their families can relax through a variety of cultural events, such as tug-of-war competitions, ethnic troupe performances, and barracks children’s dances, as part of WASA, an annual military custom.
Mohammed claimed that the 301 Artillery Regiment General Support supports Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Safe Haven in border areas in Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, and Bauchi states in addition to overseeing internal security activities in Gombe State.
He underlined that the army’s ability to keep the peace depends on the participation of the locals.
“The military’s strength lies not only in its arsenal but also in the host community’s cooperation. We encourage locals to keep praying for us and working together.
“The people of Gombe have been very friendly and accommodating,” Mohammed remarked.
The commander pointed out that the high level of cooperation between security forces and the local populace is the reason why Gombe has a more tranquil atmosphere than other North-East states.
“You would concur with me that Gombe continues to be one of the most tranquil states in the entire Northeast. This is because we collaborate with the host community, which is demonstrated by the event today. The friendly connection we have is also reflected in the number of security agencies present. Other nations ought to take a cue from the Gombe model,” he hinted.
Emmanuel Ugwu, the managing director and chief executive officer of Hara Foam, also spoke at the ceremony and praised the army for using WASA to honour and celebrate its officers.
“The Nigerian Army has a long history of using WASA as a means of promoting communication between the military and the general public. Additionally, it offers a chance to honour and inspire valiant warriors,” he noted.
Ugwu called on other security organisations to follow suit, stressing that praise and encouragement raise spirits and motivate staff to work more.
“We all have a shared responsibility for security. People are more likely to put forth greater effort when they are commended for it. We urge our fellow security services to follow suit,” he added.
