Troops get commendation for rescuing woman who plunged into Lagos Lagoon

By Abiodun OBA

Nigerian Army (NA) soldiers operating under 81 Division NA have been commended the soldiers for being observant, and for their ingenuity, courage, and gallantry.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division NA, Major General Muhammed Takuti Usman, gave the commendation in a statement while reacting to the rescue of Mrs Francesca Spark resident of Awoyaya Lagos who attempted suicide by plunging into the Lagos Lagoon.

Spark who plunged into the Lagos Lagoon around 81 Division Officers’ Mess, Marina Lagos was rescued by troops of 65 Battalion NA deployed at the Officers’ Mess.

The statement by Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, disclosed that the troops of 65 Battalion NA deployed at the Officers’ Mess, who sighted Mrs Spark quickly used their military riverine skills and ingenuity to rescue her.

“She was given first aid and stabilised by the battalion medical team. After stabilisation, the family was contacted and she was handed over to her husband, one Mr Spark Oghene Ovie residing at Awoyaya Lagos.”

The GOC said he was pleased that soldiers brought their training in disaster management to bear in such a critical situation that could have claimed the life of a fellow citizen.

Maj Gen Usman who said such an operation was a military operation other than war conducted during emergencies or natural disasters affirmed that troops have been trained to support leading agencies during emergencies.

He assured residents of the NA’s commitment to protect them and their properties even during emergencies.