Officers’ Mess, Military Cantonment Onitsha, Organises Grand Get-Together

By Polycarp Ifeanyi, Onitsha

It was a celebration galore on December 14, 2025, as members of the Officers’ Mess, Military Cantonment Onitsha, Anambra State, organised their 2025 Get-Together in grand style.

The colourful event, which attracted members and guests from different walks of life, took place at the Officers’ Mess within the 302 Artillery Regiment, Military Cantonment, Onitsha.

Members of the Officers’ Mess are a distinguished assembly of reputable men and women often described as “timbers and calibres” who dine, interact, and socialise within the military environment while fostering cordial civil-military relations.

Speaking with journalists during the event, the incumbent Chairman of the Officers’ Mess, Chief Henry Ikechukwu Akpotue, explained that the get-together was organised primarily to give thanks to God for the successful year 2025 and to strengthen unity among members.

Chief Akpotue noted that the Nigerian Army requires a closer relationship with civilians, stressing that many public perceptions about the military are inaccurate and misleading.

“What people think or have been told about the military is largely untrue. These are wrong perceptions. Instead of losing by coming closer to the Army, you stand to gain a lot. I have been a friend of the Army since 2003, and I have never experienced anything negative. Rather, my relationship with them has been beneficial,” he said.

Popularly known as Egbe-eji-eje-ogu, Chief Akpotue further explained that the Officers’ Mess is open to responsible and law-abiding individuals who wish to belong to a reputable organisation.

According to him, once admitted and issued an official identity card, a member has access to Officers’ Mess facilities not only across Nigeria but also internationally.

“Many people think the Officers’ Mess is just a place for entertainment. That is not correct. It is a place where you meet people of substance—Generals, Lieutenant Generals, Colonels, and Major Generals. From them, you gain ideas, mentorship, and guidance that can help you succeed in life,” he stated.

He added that membership is open to all, regardless of social or economic status, provided the individual is of good character.

“The major requirements are integrity and good conduct. You must not be a criminal or engage in illegal trade. Whether you are rich or poor, you are welcome once you are reputable,” Akpotue added.

Also speaking, the Chairman Emeritus of the Officers’ Mess, Hon. Anike Samuel, emphasised that membership offers protection from undue intimidation and provides strong support in times of need.

He highlighted the numerous benefits enjoyed by members, including mutual assistance during both pleasant and challenging moments.

“We are our brother’s keeper. In the event of an emergency, a simple phone call can attract a prompt response. The Army will always respond and deploy personnel to assist where necessary,” he said.

Hon. Anike dispelled the notion that military barracks are hostile or inaccessible environments, noting that soldiers are approachable and eager to relate with civilians.

According to him, the military depends on civilians for credible information about happenings in society, just as civilians rely on the military for security.

“The military needs civilians, and civilians equally need the military. It is a relationship that must be nurtured,” he added.

In her remarks, the Secretary-General of the Officers’ Mess, Hon. Lady Lizzy Chidima Nkamuigbo, said the essence of the get-together was to celebrate members and further strengthen their bond.

Lady Nkamuigbo, fondly known as “Mummy Bishop,” explained that the Officers’ Mess actively supports the military while also engaging in fundraising initiatives aimed at assisting society and sustaining the organisation.

She affirmed that members of the Officers’ Mess are tested, trusted, and credible individuals.

“Although we are not fully trained like the military, we undergo certain forms of training. We participate in exercises with the Army, and these trainings are beneficial to us,” she said.

The event featured camaraderie, networking, and entertainment, reinforcing the strong partnership between the military and civilian members of the Officers’ Mess.