SECURITY: We’ll continue to promote already existing cordial civil-military relationship— Makinde

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has reassured the officers, soldiers and families of 2 Division Nigerian Army that his administration remained committed to promoting the already existing cordial civil-military relationship to a greater level for the betterment of the good people of Oyo State.

He stated this on Friday while speaking at the 2024 West African Social Activities held at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan. 

Governor Makinde, who was represented by his Deputy, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, stated that the impact of the achievements of the Nigerian Army during this period has added greater values, respect, honour and dignity to our perception as a people, about the Nigerian Army. 

According to him, the link that binds the Nigerian Army and the rest of the citizens is further strengthened with this type of interaction. 

The Deputy Governor, who was accompanied by top government functionaries to the event, noted that the effort of 2 Division in supporting the security efforts of the Oyo State Government and its good people is sincerely appreciated.

He maintained that the Nigerian Army today is seen to have played more roles in aid to Civil Authority than any other time in the history of our dear nation, which according to him, included the curtailment of the activities of criminals, kidnappers, and illegal miners among others particularly in Oyo State.

He said: “Indeed, your presence in Oyo State has helped us secure our State and ensure we deliver on our administration’s promise to our people in all 33 Local Government areas of Oyo State. I am indeed glad that the 2 Division in particular has recorded these achievements without prejudice to its respect for the Rule of Law. I have personally noted the achievements of Operation BURST in Oyo State, where the troops of 2 Division play a key role, as well as the culture of collaboration you have built with other security agencies in the State. To this end, I wish to use this occasion to commend the gallant officers and soldiers of 2 Division in particular and the entire Nigerian Army at large. I also urge you to maintain and sustain the tempo.

“I also want to assure you that the government and the good people of Oyo State will continue to support and cooperate with the Nigerian Army in order to reap the full dividends of peace and security. I have, and will, continue to consider the Army barracks and cantonments in Oyo State as part of our constituency.

“Finally, on behalf of the Government and the good people of Oyo State, I wish to thank all the officers, soldiers of 2 Division and their families for inviting me as the Special Guest of Honour for West African Social Activities Year 2024. I wish you a continuous happy stay in Oyo State. For those that came from far and wide to grace this occasion, I wish you a happy stay in the Pace Setter State. As you return to your various destinations after the ceremony, I wish you safe journey. Thank you and God bless.”

Earlier in his remarks, the general officer commanding 2 division, Maj Gen OG Onubogu, said the WestAfrican Social Activities has become customary, and passed from generation to generation. 

He said the Division in collaboration with other security agencies has maintained security and peaceful co-existence in Oyo, Edo, Ekiti, Kogi, Kwara, Ondo,Osun, and part of Niger States which it is Area of Responsibilities under the directive and guidance of the Chief of Army Staff. 

Onubogu equally noted that the Division has conducted several operations to checkmate banditry, illegal mining, kidnapping, armed robbery, smuggling, impersonationand other sundry crimes.

He, however, extended his deep appreciations to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, members of his government, traditional institutions, clergies as well as all citizens of the State for the support the Division has been enjoying throughout the year.

The Generall officer added that the 2 Division will continue to keep Nigeria together as a nation. 

The event highlights included cultural dances, thug of war and other several activities to commemorate the day. 

On the entourage of the Deputy Governor included commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade; Commissioner for Special Duties, Joke Sanni; Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Soliu Adelabu; OYRTMA boss, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd); OYSIPA Boss, Folami Adetilewa; Col. Oladipo James Ajibola, the Director-General, Operation Burst and host of others.