Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Wednesday acknowledged the role of the officers and men of the Nigerian Army in confronting the menace of kidnapping in the state, commending them for their gallantry and sacrifice.
Playing host to the visiting Commander of the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, Major General Nansak Danjuma Shagaya, and some other senior officers at Government House, Benin City, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s strategic partnership with the Nigerian Army in stemming the tide of kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.
He noted that the collaboration between the Edo State Government and security agencies, particularly the Army, was already producing measurable results in the fight against insecurity.
Governor Okpebholo said, “I am delighted to receive you, especially considering the level of collaboration between my administration and your men in tackling kidnapping. Our partnership with the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army is yielding positive results. At times, you see your men spending days in the bush combing forests. You begin to wonder where they draw their strength from”.
While commending the gallantry and sacrifice of the soldiers, Governor Okpebholo noted that their relentless operations have brought relief to residents across Edo communities affected by kidnappers.
“My administration deeply appreciates the efforts of these gallant soldiers whose contributions are restoring peace and confidence among our people,” he stated.
Further assuring the Army of continued support, particularly in strengthening Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) established in strategic locations across the state to enhance rapid response and security surveillance, the governor promised that “We are ready to sustain and even deepen our partnership, especially in supporting the Forward Operating Bases set up in some parts of the state”.
He urged the Commander to convey his appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff “for his leadership and commitment to securing our people”.
On the flooding challenges affecting the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport at Isihor, the governor regretted that immediate intervention may be constrained by the ongoing rainy season and established procurement procedures.
According to him, “There is little we can do at this stage because the rainy season has already set in, and we must follow due process in procurement. However, we had similar flooding issues at Ekenwanq Barracks, and we intervened successfully. The area is now in a much better condition. We will study the situation at Isihor and determine how best to address it”.
In his remarks, Major General Shagaya expressed appreciation to the governor for his consistent support and collaboration with the Army, pledging the Corps’ continued backing of the administration’s developmental agenda.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to sustaining peace, unity, and stability in Edo State and across the country.
The Army Commander also appealed for the government’s intervention to tackle the persistent flooding affecting the school and surrounding communities in the Isihor and Ugbowo axis.
Beyond security, he sought collaboration in areas such as capacity building, youth engagement, driver refresher courses, catering services, and firefighting support.
The renewed partnership underscores Edo State Government’s intensified security strategy aimed at curbing kidnapping, strengthening military-civil relations, and improving safety across the state.