The Nigerian army, operating under 81 Division, has prevented a woman named Mrs. Francesca Spark from committing suicide after she leaped into the Lagos Lagoon.
The Army announced this in a statement issued Monday morning by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations.
Ayeni noted that the woman fell into the lagoon near the 81 Division Officers’ Mess in Marina Lagos.
“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 stabilized by the battalion medical team. After stabilization, the family was contacted and she was handed over to her husband, one Mr Spark Oghene Ovie residing at Awoyaya Lagos,” the statement partly read.
The General Officer Commanding of the 81 Division, Major General Muhammed Takuti Usman, commended the soldiers for being observant and for their ingenuity, courage, and gallantry.
The GOC said he is 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 emphasised the significance of military operations conducted during emergencies or natural disasters.
He confirmed that troops have undergone extensive training to provide support to leading agencies in times of crisis.
He also assured residents of the army’s dedication to safeguarding the well-being and assets of local residents, particularly in times of crisis.
