WARRI/Nigeria: 181 Amphibious Battalion of the Nigerian Army has held her annual West African Social Activities (WASA).
Speaking at the event which took place at Owa Model primary school, in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State, the Commanding officer of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Lt. Col. S .A Yahaya, noted that the purpose of the exercise was to mark the end of training session of soldiers.
According to him, it is an age long tradition aimed at creating a condusive atmosphere for officers and soldiers and their families at the end of a rigorous training year.
“The exercise is also used to herald the end of s harvest and the beginning of a planting season. Also, it is our belief the exercise will usher bumper harvest and progress into the New Year” he stated.
Yahaya said that the origin of WASA could be traced to the Second World War, when the Nigerian Army fought as part of the larger frontier force and had to carve out time to celebrate their cultural heritage at the end of every year.
While noting that it was an annual event, he stated that 181 Amphibious Battalion covers 13 local government in Delta State.
“WASA has afforded us the great opportunity to celebrate our various cultural heritage and upholding our unity in diversity” he added
The well attended featured cultural display by groups, tug of war competition, presentation of awards to deserving soldiers and others.
Highpoint of the event was lighting of burn fire to the admiration of attendees.
