The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Saturday 11 April 2026, commissioned the newly renovated Atoshi Recreational Centre in Wukari, Taraba State.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Bashir Muhammad Jajira Acting Deputy DirectorArmy Public Relations Army Headquarters Garrison said the project, executed under the Special Civil-Military Cooperation initiative by the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Maxwell Dangana, highlights the relentless commitment of the Nigerian Army to strengthening civil-military relations and supporting community development.
Represented by the Force Commander, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, the COAS stated that the project reflects the Nigerian Army’s resolve to foster public support, enhance cooperation and contribute to national security through community-oriented interventions. He emphasised the critical role of citizens in achieving security objectives within a dynamic operational environment.
The COAS commended the people of Wukari for their support and acknowledged the town’s socio-cultural and economic significance. He noted that the renovated centre, previously in a state of disrepair, will promote social cohesion, recreation, and youth engagement, while complementing government efforts to create a conducive environment for residents and neighbouring communities.
Highlighting similar interventions nationwide, the Army Chief reiterated the Nigerian Army’s focus on healthcare, education, infrastructure and community development. He also praised Major General Dangana for his initiative and urged the community to take ownership of the facility to ensure its sustainability.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Etsu-Ndagi, noted that the Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation Projects have delivered impactful, quick-win initiatives across the country. He commended the people of Taraba State for their continued support and called for sustained collaboration in addressing security challenges.
Earlier, Major General Maxwell Dangana stated that the project, originally built in 1990, was renovated to strengthen trust between the Nigerian Army and the community. He described the initiative as a demonstration of the commitment of the Nigerian Army to strategic cooperation and national unity, while appreciating the COAS for approving the project.
The Executive Chairman of Wukari LGA, Honourable Bala Useni, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army, describing the project as a symbol of unity and youth development. He noted its role in enhancing social cohesion and security, while urging residents to support security agencies through cooperation and information sharing. The renovated centre features modern facilities, including sporting amenities and improved environmental aesthetics, to support community engagement.
In attendance at the commissioning were senior military officers from Defence and Service Headquarters; heads of security and law enforcement agencies in Wukari; the Chairmen of Wukari, Takum, Donga, and Ibi Local Government Areas and members of their Executive Councils; His Royal Majesty, Dr Manu Ishaku Adda Ali (Matakhitswen), the Aku Uka of Wukari, Supreme Leader of the Jukun, and Chairman of the Taraba State Council of Traditional Rulers; the Gara of Donga; the Chiefs of Takum and Ibi; other members of the Council of Traditional Rulers; and members of the academia,among others.
