COAS tasks troops on security of critical national assets

From Tony John, Port Harcourt

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, to tighten protection of critical national facilities in the Niger Delta region.

Lieutenant General Shaibu gave the charge during a working visit to the Headquarters of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Friday.

He stressed that their effective protection of national assets would have a direct positive impact on the nation’s economy.

The COAS emphasised that their responsibility of securing key national assets remains central to the mandate of the division and must be carried out with discipline, commitment and dedication.

Shaibu assured the troops that their welfare remained a top priority, promising that their entitlements would be fully addressed.

Shaibu declared: “Your job here is very key to protecting critical national infrastructures. And once you do that job very well, it will impact positively on the economy of the country. So, you need to take your job very seriously. Be disciplined, committed and dedicated to the mandate of this division.

“While you do that, be rest assured I will take care of your welfare issues, which is topmost priority. You get what you deserve, what is entitled to you in one piece.”

The COAS stated that he had been briefed by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 6 Division and brigade commanders, adding that some of the challenges identified have already been resolved.

Lt. General Shaibu also announced the approval of additional accommodation projects, renovation of existing quarters and the completion of ongoing infrastructure projects to ease housing challenges within the division.

He said: “I’ve been briefed by the General Officer Commanding and all your brigade commanders. Some of the challenges raised were addressed immediately. For instance, the issue of accommodation, we have approved the construction of additional accommodations. The renovation of certain quarters. And the completion of some ongoing projects.”

The Army Chief also disclosed plans to enhance access to quality education for personnel’s children, stressing that troops are expected to perform their duties diligently in return.

He said: “Once this is done, it will go a long way in mitigating some of the accommodation challenges that are here.

“In terms of quality education for your children, that is being looked into. In turn, we expect you to do your job conscientiously.”