Army vows protection of oil facilities in Niger Delta

From Tony John, Port Harcourt

The 6 Division, Nigerian Army, has restated its commitment to the protection of oil installations of multinational companies operating in the Niger Delta region.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, made the declaration at the commissioning of a hospital building executed by TotalEnergies at the Port Harcourt barracks, in Rivers State.

Major General Emekah reiterated that the Nigerian military remains committed to promoting a safe and secure environment in partnership with its strategic partners within the Niger Delta region.

The GOC added that the project represents a major milestone in the commitment to the welfare of the troops and their families.

Emekah said: “It also reflects the strength of collaboration and partnership between TotalEnergies, the Nigerian neighbours, particularly 6 Division.”

He described the gesture as a clear demonstration of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR), saying the partnership was anchored on mutual trust and understanding.

“The facility will definitely enhance our capacity to deliver quality medical care for all our personnel and their families.”

According to the GOC, the relationship has contributed significantly to peace, stability and development in the Division area of responsibility (AOR).

Major General Emekah assured that the Division would take every necessary step to sustain and deepen the already existing relationship.

“A soldier, who knows that his welfare, particularly his health and that of his family is being taken care of, will be at peace; the soldier will be interested to put in his or her best in the discharge of his or her duty.

“So, this project is not just a medical investment, it’s a moral booster and the reinforcement of our fighting spirit.”

Speaking, the Managing Director/Country Chair of the company, Matthieu Bouyer, said the troops are playing a significant role in safeguarding oil facilities in the region.

He said the project executed is dear to the company and reflects the strong partnership between them and the 6 Division.

Bouyer expressed: “It is truly inspiring to witness the dedication and resilience that everyday, you demonstrate protecting our personnel and our facilities while upholding the highest standard of professionalism.

“And I can tell you that we have observed in the last decades and last years, the determination that the 6 Division has in protecting our people, our lives and our assets.

“It’s truly impressive and truly valuable for us. Safety, you know, is a core value, as we used to say in TotalEnergies. And for us, safety goes hand-in-hand with health and environment.

“So, this new facility is intended to provide a safe and supportive environment for your soldiers and their families in time of need.”