Posted by Soldiers from the Nigerian Army’s 35 Artillery Brigade in Alamala took part in a clean-up initiative along the Lafenwa-Rounder road in the Abeokuta North area of Ogun State on Tuesday, instead of guns and ammunition.
According to reports, the soldiers were spotted with shovels, rakes, and head pans, along with some National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, clearing garbage and filling potholes with stones.
This is in response to the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), a time when the army gives back to society and attempts to connect with local communities.
Brig. Gen. Muhammed Aminu, Brigade Commander, explained that the event was not only about commemorating the army, but also about giving back to the community.
Aminu stated in a statement issued by Garrison Commander Col. Legborsi Nule,
“We use the celebration to reach out to our immediate surroundings, our host communities, and provide services to them so that they understand that the Nigerian army is not only about fighting wars and battles, but also about providing services and utilities.”
“We’re here today to do our part, which is to provide services to the community.” There has been a separation between the army and its immediate surroundings over the years, but when we perform things like this, it sends a message to the people that we are part of the government working to create society and let people know that we are here as part of them, as brothers and sisters.”
Aminu noted that NADCEL was also an opportunity to memorialize those who had made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.