As part of measures to address the lingering security issues around the littoral areas of Akwa Ibom, the state governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has called for the location of an additional Army battalion along the Oron axis of the state.
He made the call at the Government House, Uyo, while playing host to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The army chief was in the state for the combined 2nd and 3rd quarters edition of the 2024 Chief of Army Staff Conference, holding from August 26 to August 30, 2024.
Welcoming the Army Chief and his entourage to the state, Governor Eno commended the reflection of federal character in the top echelon of the Nigerian Army.
He also commended their efforts and commitment to preserving the nation’s democracy by ensuring the security of citizens across the various parts of the country, while equally expressing hope that normalcy will soon be restored in troubled areas.
The Akwa Ibom governor particularly lauded the synergy between the Army formations in the state and other security agencies, saying it is a major boost to the security of the state.
He assured of the state government’s readiness to lend all necessary support to enable the establishment of the new base.
Earlier, Lagbaja said the courtesy call on the governor was traditional to register the presence of the Nigerian Army in the host state for the week-long conference.
He commended the peaceful and hospitable ambiance of the state, which, he affirmed, informed the choice of Akwa Ibom for the conference.
Lagbaja noted that the conference is usually hosted in Abuja, stressing that when taken outside Abuja, it is always to troubled spots, as a show of force.
The Nigerian Army Chief, however, said the case in Akwa Ibom was different as they were in the state to relax and discuss serious national security concerns.
He expressed appreciation to the government and people of Akwa Ibom State for the infrastructural and logistical support extended to the 2 Brigade headquarters in the state, as well as the warm reception accorded his team.
He further assured of the continuous commitment of the Army to exert itself in ensuring the security and safety of citizens at all times.
