KEY POINTS
- New recreational park unveiled by army to honor Mariya Lagbaja.
- Facility promotes the welfare, recreation and community bonding among the soldiers’ families.
- Park is a tribute to the enduring legacy of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja.
Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja Recreational Park unveiled by Nigerian Army at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos, Plateau State.
The park was inaugurated on Saturday by Major General AE Abubakar, General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN in honour of Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, former President Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA).
Named after Mrs. Lagbaja, the park goes to her for all she has done in the welfare of soldiers and their families in the 3 Division.
Modern attractions in the facility are a sparkling swimming pool, 5-a-side synthetic football pitch and recreational equipment such as trampolines, bouncy castles and electric merry go rounds, bicycles, swings, battery powered bicycles. Enjoyed both in the day and at the night, by floodlit facilities.
In honor of legacy and of community
Major General Abubakar further pointed out that recreation is a vital part of fostering community spirit and improving the physical and emotional well being of service members and their families. He also stated that “The role this park serves in our commitment to improving our soldiers’ well being is vital,”.
It is also a tribute to the late Lt. Gen. TA Lagbaja, the 23rd Chief of Army Staff, who made great contributions to the military and the Plateau State community. The park is a lasting legacy of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s vision on community welfare, Major General Abubakar said.
Timely addition to the barracks community
Major General Abubakar added that the nearest recreational facility was more than 30 minutes away and that the facility was critical for encouraging relaxation, family bonding and strengthening the bond within the community. He urged the barracks community to adopt the park and to enjoy all the facilities therein.
