Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commended the Nigerian Army’s 4 Brigade for what he described as a proactive and effective security posture that has significantly enhanced safety across Edo State.
Zig Diaries Defence
Date: Sunday, 18 January 2026
Time: 21:12 WAT
Location: 📍 Benin City, Nigeria
The Governor made the remarks while serving as Special Guest of Honour at the 2025 West African Social Activities (WASA), held on Saturday, 17 January 2026, at the Nigerian Army Cantonment, Ekehuan, Benin City.
According to a statement by the Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Captain Kennedy Anyanwu, the Governor noted that the Brigade’s sustained operations had contributed to the comparatively low levels of violence and criminality recorded across Edo State during the Yuletide period.
Governor Okpebholo attributed the improved security environment to the Brigade’s synergy with other security agencies, pointing to operational successes recorded against internet fraudsters, kidnappers, illegal oil bunkerers and other economic saboteurs operating within the state.
He also expressed satisfaction at the relaxed and celebratory atmosphere of the WASA event, describing it as an opportunity for officers, soldiers, their families and friends to give thanks to God for the successful completion of the 2025 training year and to usher in a new one.
The Governor further praised the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, for organising what he called a beautiful display of Nigeria’s cultural diversity through food, music and dance, noting that Edo State remains a stronghold of African cultural heritage and that the WASA celebration resonated deeply with the state’s identity.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, explained that WASA is a long-standing military tradition designed to foster relaxation, unity and social interaction between soldiers, their families and host communities at the end of a training year.
He disclosed that the Brigade successfully achieved its 2025 training objectives, which were aimed at strengthening professionalism and sustaining operational excellence across its areas of responsibility.
Brigadier General Balogun attributed the achievement to the commitment and determination of officers and soldiers of the Brigade, supported by the strategic guidance of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, and the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General C. R. Nnebeife.
In a vote of thanks, the Chief of Staff, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, and Chairman of the Central Organising Committee, Colonel U. S. Agbo, thanked the Governor for honouring the Brigade with his presence despite his busy schedule.
“Your presence has brought great honour to our event, and we are truly grateful for your endless support and inspiration,” he said.
Colonel Agbo also appreciated distinguished guests, sister services, commanders and heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, as well as senior officers both serving and retired, for gracing the occasion.
The 2025 WASA celebration featured cultural dance performances by troupes representing Hausa, Igbo, Calabar, Tiv, Idoma, Yoruba and Edo ethnic groups, alongside activities such as strip-and-assemble rifle competitions for male and female soldiers, tug-of-war contests, award presentations, the beating of the retreat and the lighting of a ceremonial bonfire.
🏷️ Tags: Edo State, Nigerian Army, 4 Brigade, WASA 2025, Security Operations, Benin City, Civil Military Relations
#ZigDiariesDefence #NigerianArmy #4Brigade #WASA2025 #EdoState #BeninCity #NationalSecurity
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