COAS tasks troops on infrastructure security to boost economy

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Friday visited the 6-Division Headquarters of the Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, where he charged them to ensure optimum protection of critical national infrastructure to boost the nation’s economy.

He stressed that effective security from the troops would have a direct positive impact on the nation’s economy.

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

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

COAS reaffirms commitment to strengthening security in Niger

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

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.

He said, “While you do that, be rest assured your welfare issues, which is our topmost priority, will be taken care. You get what you deserve, what is entitled to you in one piece.

“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.

Shaibu added, “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.”