By Isaiah Eka
Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has stressed the need for stronger collaborations with the Army and other security agencies in ensuring the safety of citizens of the country.
Eno said this on Wednesday in Uyo, when he received on courtesy, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Eric Emekah in his office.
Reiterating his call for an Army base to assist provide maritime security along the Oron coastal areas, the governor said that there was the need to protect citizens of the country both on land and in the waters.
He said that the state would continue to support the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to achieve success in their constitutional responsibilities.
“For us as a state, we will continue to support the Nigerian Army and the security agencies to carry out their jobs because they are protecting our state and our people.
“I remember the last time when the late Chief of Army Staff had a conference here, we made a request that we need a battalion along the Oron-Urueffong Oruko axis because that will help check criminality along the waterways.
“He promised then that we will get it, but unfortunately he has passed on; I believe you can help us to achieve that,” Eno said.
Earlier the GOC commended the support of the Akwa Ibom Government to the Army formations in the state.
Emekah disclosed that he was in the state for a tour of detachments under his command following his assumption of duties as the GOC, 6 Division.
He assured that the Nigerian Army would continue to perform her constitutional duties professionally.
“I have been to Akwa Ibom several times on oversight functions based on my previous appointment, so I know what you have been doing for the Army.
“Therefore, I want to, on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff and the officers and men of 6 Division, say thank you very much, particularly for 2 Brigade, who are the primary beneficiary of your hospitality,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the GOC also visited the 2 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Mbiokporo cantonment and inspected some facilities with the Commander 2 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Alexander Tawasimi.
He also visited the Commander’s Quarters under construction, junior officers’ quarters, senior non-commissioned officers’ quarters, Regimental sergeant major quarters, Nursery and primary school among others. NAN
