The Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has reassured the Nigerian Army (NA) of his government’s continuous synergy for stable peace and an indivisible nation.
Fubara gave the reassurance on Monday 25th December 2023 at the Port Harcourt Barracks on the occasion of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Christmas Luncheon with frontline troops of the 6 Division.
While felicitating with troops, the governor, who was represented by his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, expressed joy in being among the troops to celebrate the Christmas, adding that they are the reason the nation is still indivisible and why the citizens can go to sleep with their eyes closed.
Professor Ngozi Odu also expressed her utmost joy in being part of the event, where the high and mighty humbled themselves to serve the subordinates, which according to her, signifies humility that teaches being a servant leader in line with biblical principles.
The deputy governor further acknowledged their selfless efforts and applauded them, especially those in the frontline, and prayed for their successful sojourn. She pledged the commitment and continuous synergy of the Rivers State Government under the watch of Governor Siminalayi Fubara towards ensuring the peace and safety of every Nigerian citizen and noted that all hands must be on deck to ensure that unity thrives in Nigeria, the pride of every Nigerian.
Meanwhile, the COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, appreciated and congratulated the gallant troops for their unwavering dedication and sacrifices in ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
Lagbaja, who was represented by Major General KO Aligbe, the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command, assured troops that their selfless sacrifices were noted and appreciated.
The COAS disclosed that Army Headquarters has initiated several welfare projects and packages that will directly affect and impact the lives of soldiers and their families, whose well-being he noted, is of utmost importance to his command and will continue to provide necessary resources and support for the effective and efficient discharge of their responsibilities.
He, therefore, urged those in the frontlines to spend time with their comrades, share joyful moments, heartfelt conversations, and take solace in the camaraderie that binds them together as a formidable force.
Earlier, the host, General Officer Commanding 6 Division/Land Component Commander, South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, appreciated the COAS for the significant opportunity provided to say thank you for a job well done to troops for their sacrifices to the NA and fatherland, especially in the Niger Delta Region.
He stressed that the celebration was in line with the COAS Command Philosophy, which has sound administration, anchored on welfare as one of its main pillars.
Major General Jamal reiterated and pledged the commitment and support of the NA and indeed 6 Division to ensure that the Federal Government achieves its oil output target and even surpasses it for the benefit of the nation in 2024, adding that the Division will continue to conduct its operations in line with global best practices and adherence to code of conduct, rules of engagement as well as respect for the fundamental human rights of the citizenry.
High points of the event were the serving of soldiers by the Deputy Governor, COAS, GOC, and other dignitaries, cultural entertainment and comedy as well as group photographs.
