In a remarkable act of heroism, soldiers from the Nigerian Army’s 81 Division have prevented a tragic suicide attempt by Mrs. Francesca Spark, who had plunged into the Lagos Lagoon near the 81 Division Officers’ Mess in Marina, Lagos.
Lt. Col. Olabisi Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, confirmed this life-saving operation in a statement released on Monday. He commended the swift and resourceful response of the troops from the 65 Battalion NA, who utilized their military riverine skills to rescue Mrs. Spark from her perilous situation.
Following her rescue, Mrs. Spark received immediate first aid and was stabilized by the battalion’s medical team. Subsequently, the soldiers contacted her family and handed her over to her husband, Mr. Spark Oghene Ovie, who resides in Awoyaya, Lagos.
Major General Muhammed Takuti Usman, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 81 Division NA, expressed his admiration for the soldiers’ vigilance, ingenuity, courage, and gallantry in handling this critical situation. He underscored the significance of their disaster management training, emphasizing that such operations fall within the realm of military assistance during emergencies or natural disasters.
Major General Usman reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting residents and their properties, even in times of emergencies, underscoring the army’s dedication to supporting leading agencies during critical situations. This successful mission not only prevented a tragedy but also highlighted the military’s readiness to serve and safeguard the community when needed.
