COAS Lauds Support For Nigerian Army In Edo

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen Waidi Shaibu, has commended the Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, for his support and commitment to the Nigerian Army in the state.

Shaibu gave the commendation on Friday when he paid a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House, Benin.

The COAS said he was in the state to attend several military functions and inspect projects designed to improve the welfare and operational effectiveness of officers and soldiers.

According to him, senior officers promoted to the rank of Major-General are encouraged to give back to their communities as part of efforts to appreciate the communities that contributed to their growth and development.

Shaibu thanked Okpebholo for his administration’s support to the Nigerian Army and wished him a prosperous tenure.

Responding, Okpebholo expressed delight at receiving the Army chief and his entourage, saying he had decided to remain in Benin to personally receive him despite having plans to travel out of the state.

The governor said there was “something special” between Shaibu and Edo, noting that the Army chief had paid particular attention to issues affecting the state since assuming office.

“I think there is something special between you and Edo, because since you came into office, you have specially paid attention to things about Edo, most especially the 83 Division that is coming to our state,” Okpebholo said.

He said Edo people were excited about the planned establishment of the 83 Division in the state, describing it as a significant development.

Okpebholo also commended the Army chief for appointing a Brigade Commander whose activities, he said, had contributed significantly to improving security in the state.

“Let me tell you, the best gift that you have given me is the Brigade Commander that you brought to Edo.

“Since I became the governor, his coming is like a comfort to me, because today, nobody is talking about kidnapping in our state,” he said.

The governor said the Brigade Commander had remained committed to maintaining peace and security across the state, adding that Army personnel and the sister agencies had demonstrated readiness to respond promptly to security challenges.

He recalled that there was a time when residents of Ekpoma could hardly sleep due to insecurity, but said the situation had significantly improved following the intervention of security agencies.

“As I speak with you, Ekpoma is in peace. People can now go to their farms,” Okpebholo said.

He also identified Okpella as another area that had experienced security challenges, saying that the security agencies efforts have restored peace and stability in the community.

“There is nothing he is not doing to restore peace across the state. I am happy working with him. He is someone that is ready to work for the people and ready to serve,” the governor said.

Okpebholo expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army for its support in securing the state and assured the Army chief of his administration’s continued cooperation.

He welcomed Shaibu and his entourage to Edo and expressed confidence that the partnership between the state government and the Nigerian Army would continue to yield positive results for the people.