This special event, held in celebration of Christmas, was organized by the Tribute to Our TrThe 1 Division of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna came alive on Wednesday as legendary Nigerian Dancehall artist, Daddy Showkey, brought joy and comfort to wounded soldiers and their families with a heartwarming performance. oops Foundation in collaboration with the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff and the armed forces’ tri-service Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Showkey, dressed in full military regalia, shared his heartfelt gratitude for Nigeria’s military personnel, noting that he had been performing for years to honor the sacrifices made by the troops. His performance was not just about music, but about healing. He described it as a therapeutic act for the soldiers who were undergoing medical treatment, offering them a moment of relaxation and a break from their physical struggles. It’s about changing people’s lives, which is the most important thing for me, said the artist, famously known as the Ghetto Soldier.
The event also focused on strengthening civil-military relations and honoring the sacrifices made by the military. Ms. Olivia Adom, founder of the Tribute to Our Troops Foundation, emphasized the importance of respecting and appreciating the armed forces, noting that they often give up their freedoms to protect the integrity of the country. The armed forces have given up their homes and signed off their human rights to protect the country’s integrity, she said, urging Nigerians to foster a healthier relationship with the military.
Rear Admiral Idi Abass, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations at the Defence Headquarters, also spoke on the significance of the performance, calling it part of the broader strategy to build a people-centered military. He noted that the Chief of Defence Staff aimed to ensure that the military was viewed positively by the public, using initiatives like this one to strengthen ties between the armed forces and the civilian population.
Notable attendees at the event included Maj.-Gen. Marcus Kangye, Corps Commander of Artillery, and Maj. Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, among other senior officers and military personnel. The gathering highlighted the continuous efforts of the military to connect with the people it serves, further reinforcing the importance of unity and support for those who risk their lives for the nation’s security.
