Pix: Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa

The Commander of the 4 Special Forces Command, Major General Hillary Nzan, has reiterated the Army’s “commitment to combating crime and ensuring national security.”

Nzah made the promise in his welcome address on Saturday during the 2024 West African Social Activities event of the Nigerian Army’s 4 Special Forces Command in the Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

He explained that the WASA event was designed to take officers and soldiers away from their regimented duties, allowing them to unwind and interact freely with one another and civilians.

While promising to “sustain the fight against all forms of crime within the jurisdiction of the command,” he reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to continue to remain responsive to the task of defending the country’s territorial integrity.

At the event, Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, commended the Nigerian Army for its continuous efforts in combating terrorism, insurgency, and other security threats across the country.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, lauded the Army’s commitment to ensuring national security and fostering unity among its personnel.

He praised the Army for maintaining the annual WASA event, which serves as a platform to strengthen bonds among officers, soldiers, and their families.

He acknowledged the role of the 4 Special Forces Command, describing it as “a specialised component of the Nigerian Army, which is saddled with the responsibility of airborne operations, counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism, foreign internal defense, and unconventional warfare, amongst others.”

Highlighting the Nigerian Army’s contributions to national and international security, the governor added, “It is important to acknowledge the participation of the Nigerian Army in peacekeeping missions across the globe, leading to victories which are already recorded and documented.

“This is not unconnected to the high level of discipline, resilience, and professional services exhibited by our great men during their operations. Your contributions in this direction will continue to remain evergreen in the minds of the Nigerian people.”

Sule assured the Army of his administration’s continued support to ensure the successful execution of its operations within the state.

The event featured the presentation of awards of excellence to six outstanding officers and soldiers, comprising five males and one female, for their exceptional service.

Other highlights included tug-of-war and dance competitions among various ethnic groups such as Yoruba, Eggon, Fulani, Igbo, Gwari, Gwandara, Koro, and Mada, among others.