The 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have marked the end of the 2025 training year with the West African Social Activities (WASA) celebration, highlighting significant operational successes against banditry in the North West.
According to the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the event was held at the Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto, and served both as a celebration of the Division’s cultural diversity and a platform to showcase major security achievements recorded in the past year.
Representing the Sokoto State Governor, Dr Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, the Special Adviser on Security, Colonel Ahmed Abdu (rtd), commended the Nigerian Army for its commitment to national security. He described WASA as “a historic symbol of unity, discipline, and cultural pride,” and reaffirmed the state government’s partnership with the military to promote peace and prosperity. He also praised the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his leadership.
In his address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, Major General Ibikunle Ademola Ajose, announced major operational gains under Operation FANSAN YAMMA. He disclosed that troops rescued 1,023 kidnapped victims, recovered 189 AK-47 rifles and 4,338 rounds of ammunition, seized 305 motorcycles used by bandits, recovered 4,123 stolen livestock, and neutralised several high-profile bandit leaders.
Major General Ajose said the achievements had helped restore security and economic confidence in the region, allowing farmers and residents to resume their daily activities. He noted that the successes were driven by the dedication of troops and the strategic leadership of the Chief of Army Staff.
The GOC also highlighted efforts to improve troop welfare, including upgrades to medical facilities and accommodation, describing them as critical to sustaining morale and operational effectiveness. He pledged that the Division would consolidate on the gains recorded in line with the COAS’s command philosophy.
The WASA celebration featured cultural performances, traditional cuisines from various formations, and a tug-of-war contest, as soldiers, their families, and guests celebrated the year’s achievements.
As the 2025 training year ended, the 8 Division reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operations aimed at ensuring lasting peace and security across the North West.
