Gov Diri Launches Exercise Still Waters In Bayelsa, Seeks Stakeholders’ Support
By Matthew Atungwu
Douye Diri, the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, has issued an appeal for everyone to pitch in and help preserve the calm that the state is currently experiencing.
Diri made the call when he was launching Exercise STILL WATERS III in Otuopkoti, Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State,
This was contained in a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Major Danjuma Jonah Danjuma
During his speech, Governor Diri emphasized the significance of implementing various tactics, like Exercise STILL WATERS III, to stifle any potential increase in criminal activity in the state.
This is especially important as the state gets closer to the holidays and gets ready for the 2023 gubernatorial election.
Recognizing that the many accomplishments of Exercise STILL WATERS in 2022 were a major factor in the tranquil holiday that Bayelsans experienced in 2022.
He went on to say that the Nigerian Army’s and other security services’ efforts had greatly contributed to the state’s current level of peace and security.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, was commended for continuing the exercise, but he was especially pleased with the soldiers of the 16 Brigade for their professional behavior.
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He continued by saying that Bayelsans are grateful for the tremendous dedication and sacrifices made by all of the state’s brave security services to enhance safety and tranquility.
Giving the opening remarks, the General Officer Commanding(GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army/ Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South-South, Operations DELTA SAFE, Major General Jamal Abdussalam stated that the Exercise is in line with the COAS command philosophy which is “ To Transform the Nigerian Army into a Well-Trained, Equipped, and Highly Motivated Force Towards Achieving our Constitutional Responsibilities within a Joint Environment”.
He further added that the Nigerian Army has come a long way and living up to its assigned constitutional duties, especially in contributing to global peace and security.
He further added that “Integrating relevant security agencies in the state, enhances the troop’s proficiency in the execution of military operations other than war” and cements the existing cordial civil-military cooperation to facilitate civilian support for the military.
The GOC further stated that there has been a significant increase in Nigeria’s oil output. He attributed this to the renewed efforts of troops in securing pipelines and clamping on illegal oil bunkering.
This he said clearly shows that those who accused the military of being part of the problem don’t really understand the situation. He urged troops not to be demoralized but to continue to be loyal, disciplined, and dedicated at all times.
Brigadier General Sadisu Yakasai, the Commander of 16 Brigade, had earlier said during his remarks that the purpose of this year’s exercise is to address every area of security concern in the state in order to encourage participation from all parties involved in the security architecture of the state and to establish a free and safe environment for Nigerians and Bayelsans.
The group photos, medical outreach, and amphibious show were the highlights of the flag-off.