COAS Commends Okpebholo For Support To Nigerian Army In Edo

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo for his support and commitment to the Nigerian Army in the state. Shaibu gave the commendation on Friday when he paid a courtesy visit to the Edo Government House, 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.

According to Shaibu, senior officers promoted to the rank of Major-General are encouraged to give back to their communities as part of efforts to appreciate the communities that contributed to their growth and development. Shaibu thanked Okpebholo for his administration’s support to the Nigerian Army and wished him a prosperous tenure. This courtesy visit marks a significant development in the relationship between the Nigerian Army and the Edo State government.

Responding, Okpebholo expressed delight at receiving the Army chief and his entourage, saying he had decided to remain in Benin to personally receive him despite having 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. Okpebholo’s remarks highlight the strong connection between the governor and the COAS.

Okpebholo said Edo people were excited about the planned establishment of the 83 Division in the state, describing it as a significant development. The governor commended the Army chief for appointing a Brigade Commander whose activities, he said, had contributed significantly to improving security in the state. This appointment has had a positive impact on the state's security landscape.

The governor said the Brigade Commander had remained committed to maintaining peace and security across the state, adding that Army personnel and the sister agencies had demonstrated readiness to respond promptly to security challenges. He recalled that there was a time when residents of Ekpoma could hardly sleep due to insecurity, but said the situation had significantly improved following the intervention of security agencies.

Okpebholo also identified Okpella as another area that had experienced security challenges, saying that the security agencies' efforts have restored peace and stability in the community. He expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army for its support in securing the state and assured the Army chief of his administration’s continued cooperation. The governor's remarks underscore the importance of collaboration between the state government and the Nigerian Army.

The partnership between the Edo State government and the Nigerian Army is expected to continue yielding positive results for the people. The commendation by Shaibu and the governor's appreciation for the Nigerian Army's support highlight the strong relationship between the two institutions. Key developments, including the establishment of the 83 Division and the appointment of a Brigade Commander, have significantly improved security in the state.

Key points

• The Nigerian Army Chief of Staff commends Edo Governor for his support to the Army.
• The planned establishment of the 83 Division in Edo State is a significant development.
• The Brigade Commander appointed by the COAS has contributed to improved security in the state.