Thelma Osatohanmwen
The Akwa Ibom State Government has made a firm commitment to enhance security within the state by collaborating with the Nigerian Army.
This was made known on Sunday as Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, hosted the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who, as part of his working tour of military formations and units under the Nigerian Army 6 Division, paid a courtesy visit to the governor at Government House, Uyo.
In a warm reception to the Chief of Army Staff, NEWSTODAYNG gathered that the Governor expressed admiration for the Nigerian Army’s diligent efforts in collaboration with other security agencies to maintain peace and security in the state.
He also emphasized the importance of security by establishing the Ministry of Internal Security, led by a retired Army General, to facilitate a well-coordinated partnership with security agencies.
The Governor affirmed the state’s commitment to working closely with the Chief of Army Staff and exploring opportunities for mutual collaboration to ensure lasting peace and stability, not only in the state but also across the nation in order to foster a secured environment for all.
Cementing this collaboration, the state government has offered to donate 14 new patrol boats to help military surveillance in the state’s waterways, which will be accompanied with installed machine guns.
The Chief of the Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja disclosed that, he is aware of the challenges faced by the state due to its specific location, and assured the state government of the Army’s unwavering dedication to collaborate and tackle these challenges together.
Lagbaja, who once served as Commander 2 Brigade, Uyo, before his appointment as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief of Army Chief, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome received in the state and recognized the valuable support of the state government to the Nigerian Army’s 2 Brigade stationed there, as well as the 6 Division responsible for the South-South region.
The Akwa Ibom State Government and the Nigerian army has agreed that the collaboration will bolster the security measures and ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.
