Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Malam Mohammed Bello, has commended the efforts of the Nigerian Army Guards Brigade and other security agencies in providing security in the territory and environs.
Bello, who was represented by the permanent secretary of FCTA, Mr Adesola Olusade, gave the commendation during the Guards Brigade’s Get Together Dinner to mark the end of 2022 activities on Wednesday in Abuja.
Bello commiserated with the commander, officers and men of Guards Brigade on the loss of some of their colleagues during operations earlier in the year.
He also condoled with the widows of the fallen officers for the sacrifices their husbands made for all to have peace and freedom.
He said, “I wish to appreciate and condole with you for these huge sacrifices your husband paid for our peace and freedom. I assure you that the FCT and indeed the nation owes you a debt of gratitude.”
He said the combined resilience, reactiveness and tenacity of the troops and security agencies had been able to counter plans by those who wanted to cause chaos during the year.
He noted that the task of securing FCT was made possible by the combined efforts of other security agencies and his office as the minister of the FCT.
“I am proud to state that we have all done well in ensuring the security and safety of citizens in Abuja despite recent challenges.
“The combined efforts which have made the peace being enjoyed in the FCT possible is evident in the freedom of movement and booming economic and social atmosphere in the FCT. I urge you all to keep it up as we enter into the festive season and by Allah’s mercy, year 2023,” he said.
The minister reminded the officers and soldiers that they had a major task ahead which is the 2023 general election, expressing confidence that the brigade would cooperate to achieve a peaceful environment.
Responding, Maj.-Gen. Takuti Usman said the event was organised for them to unwind and show appreciation to all friends of the Guards Brigade.
Usman said the guards brigade could not have successfully discharged its responsibilities without the support of the security agencies and strategic partners.
He said the responsiveness of the FCTA and other security agencies to the cause of the brigade had given it the needed push to perform excellently during the year.
He urged all officers and men of the guards brigade to remain vigilant to their responsibility of protecting the president and the seat of government in line with the motto of the brigade, which is ‘vigilance and sacrifice.’
