Soldiers from the 81 Division Nigerian Army, in a rescue operation, successfully averted a tragedy as they prevented Mrs. Francesca Spark from taking her own life by jumping into the Lagos Lagoon near the 81 Division Officers’ Mess in Marina, Lagos.
Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col Olabisi Ayeni, released a statement on Monday, highlighting the heroic efforts of the troops.
He stated, “The soldiers of the 65 Battalion NA stationed at the Officers’ Mess spotted Mrs. Spark and swiftly utilized their military riverine skills to rescue her from the perilous situation.”
Following the rescue, Mrs. Spark received immediate first aid and stabilization from the battalion’s medical team.
Subsequently, her family was contacted, and she was safely handed 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, commended the soldiers for their keen observation, ingenuity, courage, and gallantry.
The GOC expressed his satisfaction that the soldiers effectively applied their training in disaster management to save a fellow citizen’s life, emphasizing that such operations are a testament to the military’s preparedness for emergencies and natural disasters.
Major General Usman reassured the residents of the 81 Division NA’s unwavering commitment to protecting them and their properties, even during critical emergencies.