Enugu state Government has commended the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army for it’s commitment in ensuring peace and security of lives and properties in the state, assuring continous partnership with the Nigerian Army.
Pix: The dignatries
The state Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah who gave the assurance on Saturday, January 27 , during the 2023 West African Social Activities (WASA) of 82 Division of the Nigerian Army held at Abakpa Military Cantonment, Enugu, said, Enugu State will strengthen existing partnership and ties with the Nigerian Army to consolidate on the current peace and conducive business environment in the state.
Pix: Gov Mbah’s representative, Prof Onyia, SSG.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Governor Mbah said the state needed the help of the Nigerian Army to create a conducive environment to grow its economy from the current $4.4 billion to $33 billion .
He said the Nigerian Army remains instrumental to the ban of the illegitimate sit-at-home and checkmating activities of criminals and violent groups in the state.
Pix: Prof Onyia in a handshake with Former Gov, Ugwuanyi.
His words: “The State Government is appreciative of the Nigerian Army on a friutful partnership, which is yielding visible and practical results.
“We want to thank the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for his unrelentless support as well as the GOC and Garrison Commander for all the efforts they have put in making Enugu State one of the safest in the country.
“To build the modern Enugu State of our dream and its needed economic expansion, we need the partnership with the Nigerian Army to ensure will create a peace-friendly and secured environment for economic and human activities to continue to strive.
Pix Inspection of dishes
“As a state, we will continue to nurture this partnership and ensure more positive outcomes as we join hands to make Enugu State the safest destination of all Nigerians and foreigners .”
In his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 82 Division, Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, said that WASA was an annual event in furtherance of the Nigerian Army’s rich customs and traditions. He added that WASA also marks the end of training year and its activities.
According to the GOC, the event was important, because it brings officers, soldiers as well as their families and friends together for close social interaction at the end of each year.
Pix: GOVlC Dada
He added that it is also an avenue for cordial Inter-agency cooperation, synergy and civil-military relations with the civil populace in Enugu metropolis and its environs.
“We had lots of successful training programmes in 2023 both for troops and officers as well as for various cadres and ranks within the Division.
“We also undertook and inaugurated lots of projects, which included the renovation and remodelling of 82 Division headquarters building, renovation of some blocks in the cantonment, new 82 Officers’ Mass and water reticulation projects among others.
Pix: The Bonfire
“All these training programmes and projects is made possible by the fatherly support and direction of our amiable Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
“The Division also appreciate the COAS for approving the event as well as thank Gov. Peter Mbah, our guest of honour and other special guests including our families for gracing this colour occasion,” Dada said.
He assured the residents of 82 Division’s Area of Responsibility (AOR) of improved and adequate protection, while soliciting their coopeattion in 2024.
“We call on residents to assist the Nigerian Army and security agencies with timely security information as well as dial toll free “193” and press option 2 to get immediate security assistance when needed from troops of the Division,” he said.
The event which was attended by the immediate past Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, heads of security agencies, Captains of industries, among others, featured award presented to outstanding 24 soldiers from the 24 units under the Division.
Pix: Lowering of the Nigerian flaag
It also featured various Nigerian traditional and cultural cuisines, attires ,dances,tug-of-war and lowering of the Nigerian Flag. Gov. Mbah ignited the bonfire, signifying end of the event.
Pix: Cultural dance performance
Author: Maureen Ikpeama