COAS commends Okpebholo for supporting Army

CoAS, Shaibu. Photo: File

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Friday commended Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for his support and commitment to the Nigerian Army in the state.

According to the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, Shaibu gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Edo State Government House in 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.

He said senior officers promoted to the rank of major-general were encouraged to give back to their communities in appreciation of the support they received in their growth and development.

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

Responding, Okpebholo expressed delight at receiving the Army chief and his entourage, saying he had decided to remain in Benin to personally receive them despite earlier 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 residents 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 other security agencies had demonstrated readiness to respond promptly to security challenges.

He recalled that residents of Ekpoma once struggled to sleep because of insecurity but said the situation had improved significantly following the intervention of security agencies.

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

He identified Okpella as another area that had experienced security challenges, saying the efforts of security agencies had restored peace and stability to 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 appreciated 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 residents.