Soldiers from the Nigerian Army’s 81 Division successfully averted a suicide attempt by Mrs. Francesca Spark, who had jumped into the Lagos lagoon near the 81 Division Officers’ Mess in Marina in an effort to take her own life. This commendable rescue operation was carried out by the troops of the 65 Battalion stationed at the officers’ mess after they spotted Mrs. Spark in distress.
Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 81 Division Nigerian Army, explained that the soldiers swiftly rescued her and administered first aid, stabilizing her condition. Subsequently, they contacted Mrs. Spark’s 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 81 Division, commended the soldiers for their keen observation, ingenuity, courage, and gallantry in this critical situation. He emphasized the importance of soldiers applying their training in disaster management during such emergencies, preventing the loss of a fellow citizen’s life.
General Usman highlighted that these operations fall under military operations other than war, which are conducted during emergencies or natural disasters. He assured the residents of the Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting them and their properties, even in times of emergency.
