GOC Urges Troops to Heighten Protection of Critical National Infrastructures (Photos)
In a recent development, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Nigerian Army, and Land Component Commander of Joint Task Force, South South, Operation DELTA SAFE, has delivered a compelling charge to troops within the 16 Brigade Area of Responsibility (AOR). During a working visit on January 12, 2024, the GOC emphasised the need for troops to intensify efforts in safeguarding critical national infrastructures.
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This call to action occurred concurrently with the commissioning of several projects aimed at enhancing the welfare and operational efficiency of the troops. Addressing the troops at the 16 Field Engineer Regiment (FER) in Toru-Orua, Sagbama LGA, Major General Abdussalam urged them to remain vigilant in their duty to protect vital national assets.
He specifically highlighted the importance of dismantling illegal refineries and preventing pipeline vandalism and other criminal activities within the Niger Delta Region (NDR). Major General Abdussalam underscored that eliminating such criminal acts is crucial for the Federal Government’s goal of boosting oil production, ultimately contributing to increased revenue. The disruption of pipelines negatively affects oil production and, consequently, the nation’s revenue.
The GOC emphasised, “You must sustain the operational tempo against pipeline vandals and economic saboteurs,” emphasising the critical role the troops play in maintaining the region’s security.
During his visit to the 16 Brigade Headquarters, Major General Abdussalam commended the Commander for initiating and executing commendable projects that have positively transformed the Brigade. He praised the achievements and encouraged all officers to strive for improvements and leave behind positive legacies in their respective assignments.
Brigadier General Sadisu Yakasai, the Commander of the 16 Brigade, expressed gratitude to the GOC for his support, acknowledging that the commissioned projects focused on enhancing the welfare of officers and soldiers. He noted that having worked under the GOC’s guidance in the past at the Army War College Nigeria and now as his Brigade Commander, he has learned valuable lessons. The Brigade Commander emphasized the brigade’s deep appreciation for the GOC’s unwavering support.
Lieutenant Colonel Akinlolu Ayanfuso, the Commanding Officer of 16 FER, provided insights into the construction of the Corporal and Below Quarters (CBQ), which commenced in 2018. After a pause in construction, Major General Philip Eromosele, the Commander Corp of Engineers, promised to complete the project during his visit in March 2023. Following this commitment, work resumed on June 25, 2023, and the CBQ project has now been successfully completed and commissioned by the GOC.
The commissioned projects include a one-storey 20-family CBQ in Toru-Orua designed for troops and their families, the official residence of the Commander 16 Brigade, the Nigerian Army Post Exchange (NAPEX), Soldiers’ Canteen, Number 2 Gate at Camp Tukur Yusufu Buratai in Yenagoa, the Regimental Sergeant Major’s official residence, Officers’ transit accommodation, and a tree planting campaign in support of 16 Brigade’s biodiversity drive.
The visit’s highlights included an address to troops, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.
GOC Urges Troops to Heighten Protection of Critical National Infrastructures (Photos)