Soldiers rescue woman from committing suicide in Lagos

The Nigerian Army has said soldiers operating under 81 Division prevented a suicide attempt by one Mrs Francesca Spark, who plunged into the Lagos lagoon around 81 Division Officers' Mess, Marina, in an attempt to take her own life.

Lt.-Col Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army, in a statement, said the troops of 65 Battalion deployed at the officers' mess, who sighted Spark quickly rescued 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 said.

It said the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division, Major General Muhammed Takuti Usman, commended the soldiers for being observant and for their ingenuity, courage, and gallantry.

He said he was 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.

Usman, who said such an operation is a military operation other than war conducted during emergencies or natural disasters, affirmed that troops have been trained to support leading agencies during emergencies.

He assured residents of the Army's commitment to protect them and their properties even during emergencies.