By Solomon OKPO
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has assured the Nigerian Army of his administration’s support through project interventions at the Wellington Bassey Barracks of the 6 Battalion, Ibagwa, Abak Local Government Area.
Governor Eno gave the assurance when he received the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, and his team during a courtesy visit to the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Uyo.
He said the intervention was in response to the Army’s request and was aimed at improving accommodation facilities for personnel and boosting their morale.
“I have noted your request for us to intervene at the Ibagwa Barracks. The Commissioner for Internal Security will pay a visit to identify areas where we can assist, so that personnel can continue to enjoy good accommodation and work effectively,” the Governor stated.
Governor Eno recalled that the State had previously undertaken project interventions at the 2 Brigade cantonment in Mbiokporo, Nsit Ibom, and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to continuous collaboration with the Army and other security agencies.
He also urged the Army authorities to establish an operational outpost in the Oron coastal area to strengthen security and curtail rising criminal activities in the region.
“Arising from our reminders, you have graciously agreed to grant us a military operations outpost at Oron. This is critical because many criminal activities originate from that axis. We strongly believe that having a military presence there will reinforce our security network,” he noted.
The Governor commended the Army for its synergy with other security agencies, which he said had contributed to the peace and stability enjoyed in the State.
Earlier, Lt. Gen. Oluyede said his visit to Akwa Ibom was part of an operational tour of units and formations under the Army’s 6 Division. He commended Governor Eno for his unwavering support to the Army and other security agencies, noting that such collaboration had made Akwa Ibom one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria.
The Army Chief was accompanied by senior officers, including the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Emekah; Chief of Operations, Major General Uwem Bassey; Chief of Logistics, Major General Akerejola Adeyinka; Chief of Accounts and Budget, Major General Adetokunbo Fayemibo; Provost Marshal, Major General Garba; Chief of Military Intelligence, Major General T.B. Ugiagbe; Commander 2 Brigade, Brig. Gen. Alexander Tawasimi; and Commander 63 Brigade, Brig. Gen. Folu Shonibare, among others.
On hand to welcome the Army delegation were the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; and members of the State Executive Council.
