The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), Major General Jamal Abdussalam has called on troops to continue to create an enabling environment for sustained oil production in the Niger Delta Region (NDR). He made the call while delivering his remarks at the West African Social Activities (WASA) for the year ended 2024, at 29 Battalion Parade Ground, Port Harcourt Barracks, 18 January 2025.

Major General Abdussalam stated that this has become expedient for the Federal Government to meet its set target for 2025 and beyond. He therefore charged troops to brace up and do whatever it takes to ensure oil output continues to increase. He used the medium to thank the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede for his continued efforts in repositioning the NA through his vision, strategic guidance and direction.

Speaking further, he stated that WASA is one of the significant events which is part of the customs and traditions of the NA. The event is meant to strengthen social relationships amongst officers, soldiers and their families through cultural displays, musical performances and other regimental activities. It was also an opportunity for the barracks community to showcase the rich and diversified cultural heritage of Nigeria. He maintained that it was an event that marked the end of an eventful year, while heralding the begining of a new year. He paid special tributes to officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice for peace and security in Nigeria.

In his remarks, the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara stated that the cordial relationship between the military and civilian authority strengthens a healthy society. Governor Fubara who was represented by Rivers State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Dr Israel Ngbuelo Lebura maintained that WASA is an aged long military tradition which is used to strengthen and promote cultural and families values in the NA. He added that it also used to bring families of officers and soldiers together as well as friends to mark the end of the year training and activities as well as gear for the new year activities.

Governor Fubara disclosed that the effort, dedication and sacrifices of NA is worthy of commendation. He asserted that Rivers State Government, is particularly impressed with the zeal the NA is tackling security challenges in the NDR.

He also used the opportunity to commend the GOC and his officers and men for the fight against oil theft and.other security challenges. This he said, is highly commendable.

Major highlights of the event were cultural display, tug of war, presentation awards to soldiers as wells as group photographs. While the major highpoints were the beating of retreat and the lightening of bonfire.