The Kwara State Government has welcomed the deployment of fresh military personnel to Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area, as part of efforts to strengthen security and confront banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who spoke with journalists during a military parade held in his honour to receive the troops, said the deployment by the Nigerian Army was in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to improving internal security across the country.
AbdulRazaq said the arrival of the troops demonstrated the seriousness attached to protecting residents and securing communities in the state.
“We came to address them and welcome them to Omu-Aran, appreciate what they are doing and appreciate the Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, President Bola Tinubu,” the governor said.
The governor disclosed that five new battalions had been approved for Kwara, while the brigade currently stationed in the state would be relocated to Bode Saadu.
He also welcomed the establishment of Division 9 of the Nigerian Army in Kwara, describing the development as a major boost to the state’s security architecture.
According to him, the appointment of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the new division and the presence of the military leadership in the state indicated that arrangements for the new formation were already taking shape.
AbdulRazaq further disclosed that another team of military personnel had visited Patigi to identify and prepare a suitable location for the establishment of another battalion.
He assured the military of the state government’s cooperation, saying Kwara would provide the necessary support to enable the newly deployed troops and formations settle down and commence operations without hindrance.
The governor urged the troops to remain focused and confident in carrying out their responsibilities, noting that internal security operations require the military to deploy skills beyond conventional warfare.
“This is a call for duty. This is internal security. It is beyond the normal conventional warfare and the military is trained to adapt.
“We believe they will adapt and do their duty as needed,” he said.
AbdulRazaq expressed confidence that the expanded military presence would provide stronger protection for communities across the state.
“Everything is set to go. Kwara State is going to be protected completely by the military. We appreciate the deployment,” he said.
On the welfare of the newly deployed personnel, the governor said the state government had provided a welfare package to assist the troops in settling into their new environment.
He, however, described President Tinubu’s recent approval of improved salaries and welfare packages for military personnel as a more significant intervention capable of boosting the morale of officers and soldiers.
The governor said the state’s welfare package was only a modest contribution towards supporting the troops as they commence their security responsibilities in Omu-Aran.
The latest deployment is expected to further strengthen military presence in Kwara and enhance coordinated efforts against emerging security threats in vulnerable communities across the state.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
