By Ayomide Otitoju
The Commander of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, accompanied by senior officers, paid a solidarity visit to Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) Wesley Tafida, a 106-year-old World War II veteran and father of retired Major General HT Wesley, in Jalingo, Taraba State.
The visit highlighted the sacrifices of RSM Tafida in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity during World War II (1944–1945), where he served as a courier conveying arms and ammunition. Tafida, who served seven years as RSM at the 93 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, Ojo Cantonment, warmly received the delegation and commended the Army for its dedication to national security.
In his remarks, Brig.-Gen. Uwa praised the veteran for his service, emphasizing the Nigerian Army’s commitment to operational excellence, institutional recognition, and honoring veterans’ sacrifices while maintaining peace and security in Taraba State. He assured Tafida of the Army’s determination to overcome contemporary and emerging security threats in the region.
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, commended Brig.-Gen. Uwa for his leadership and efforts in ensuring peace across the state. Pheelangwa said the commander’s initiatives against criminality have strengthened public confidence in security personnel and encouraged vigilance among citizens.
During a courtesy visit to the 6 Brigade headquarters, Pheelangwa also lauded the discipline, professionalism, and commitment of officers and soldiers, describing their conduct as exemplary and in line with the highest traditions of the Nigerian Army.
In response, Brig.-Gen. Uwa expressed gratitude for the visit and reaffirmed the loyalty and dedication of the brigade to constituted authority, promising continued discipline and professionalism in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities in Taraba State.
