The Nigerian Army in Enugu has hosted pupils and staff of Zaneivy School, Enugu, on an educational excursion aimed at strengthening civil-military relations, enhancing public understanding of the Army’s roles and inspiring young Nigerians to consider careers in the Armed Forces.
The visit, organised as part of the Division’s people-centric initiatives, also sought to encourage youths in the South-East to embrace patriotism, discipline and national service.
A statement from the 82 Division’s spokesman Lt Colonel Olabisi Ayeni said the pupils were received at the Division Headquarters by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and Commander, Joint Task Force South-East, Operation UDO KA, Major General Oluremi Abayomi Fadairo. Also present to welcome the visitors were the Commander, 82 Division Garrison, Brigadier General G.A. Suru, and commanders of affiliated units within the Division.
Speaking during the visit, Major General Fadairo commended the management of Zaneivy School for organising the excursion, describing it as a valuable opportunity for young learners to gain firsthand knowledge of the constitutional responsibilities of the Nigerian Army and its contributions to national security and development.
He urged the pupils to remain focused on their education, uphold discipline and patriotism, and prepare themselves to become responsible leaders of the future.
During the excursion, the pupils received a comprehensive briefing on the structure, activities and operational responsibilities of Headquarters 82 Division.
They were also given the opportunity to experience a ride in a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, providing them with practical exposure to one of the Nigerian Army’s specialised combat platforms.
In a symbolic display of military tradition, one of the pupils was given the rare privilege of inspecting the Quarter Guard under the supervision of military personnel, offering the visitors an insight into the discipline and ceremonial customs of the Army.
The pupils also toured several key facilities within the cantonment, including worship centres, Signal facilities, the Nigerian Army Band and the Cantonment Medical Centre, where officers explained the roles of the various formations, departments and units in supporting military operations and maintaining peace and security.
The visit featured interactive sessions during which the pupils engaged officers and soldiers with questions on military operations, career opportunities and the Army’s role in safeguarding the nation.
The engagement, according to the Army, was designed to deepen public understanding of military activities while strengthening trust and cooperation between the Nigerian Army and the civilian population.
The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs by the General Officer Commanding to members of the school’s staff, while some pupils had the opportunity to conduct the regimental band in a memorable display of military pageantry.
Group photographs were also taken to commemorate the occasion.
The Headquarters 82 Division said the excursion reflects its continued commitment to promoting mutual understanding between the military and the public, while inspiring the younger generation to embrace the values of patriotism, discipline, leadership and selfless service to the nation.
