• Fubara harps on importance of civil-military cooperation
• Army arrests 1,112 suspects in 2023 across N’Delta

Delta State has applauded the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the country for their fight against oil theft and other crimes. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori gave the commendation at the 2023 combined West African Social Activities (WASA) for Headquarters 63 Brigade and 181 Amphibious Battalion, held at the 181 Amphibious Battalion New Barracks, Alifikede, Agbor, Ika South Council of the state.

Oborevwori, who was represented by the Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Charles Aniagwu, said that efforts of the army and other security agencies have helped to maintain peace and phenomenal growth of infrastructure, as well as unity across the state. He said the success story of the Oborevwori administration cannot be told without the collaboration of the army, the police and other security agencies.

He said: “I am delighted to be in your midst today as Special Guest of Honour for the 2023 WASA for the Headquarters 63 Brigade and 181 Amphibious Battalion.

“The tradition of WASA dates back to the days of the Royal West African Frontier Force when troops and their families came together at the end of the year to socialise and celebrate the achievements of their formations or units for that year.

“I am proud to say, with all confidence, that officers and soldiers of Headquarters 63 Brigade and 181 Amphibious Battalion, as well as their families, have given a good account of themselves in the true spirit of WASA.

“I, therefore, commend you for the sacrifices towards ensuring an enduring peace across the state, and I must sincerely appreciate the Commander, 63 Brigade, and his wonderful team for this.”

In his opening remarks, the chief host and Commander 63 Brigade Asaba, Brig. Gen. S. Aliyu, said that WASA is aimed at bringing soldiers and their families together to celebrate activities of the year.

MEANWHILE, the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, said civilian-military cooperation is a sure way to foster and strengthen a healthy society.  Fubara made the statement during the 6 Division Combined West African Social Activities (WASA) at the 29 Battalion Parade Ground, Port Harcourt Barracks, at the weekend.

The governor commended the efforts of the Nigerian Army in tackling the diverse security challenges bedevilling the nation. Fubara, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tammy Danagogo, noted that the ideals of WASA in strengthening regimentation and promotion of family values in the Nigerian Army are enormous.

The governor further acknowledged the zeal and dedication with which the Army confronts identified security challenges within the state. LSO, the Nigerian Army said it arrested over 1,112 suspected crude oil thieves and destroyed at least 233 illegal refineries in the Niger Delta region last year.
 
The  General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army/Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation Delta Safe, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, disclosed this  during the Division’s Combined West African Social Activities (WASA), held in Port Harcourt at the weekend.