Govenor Monday Okpebholo of Edo has reaffirmed his administration’s strategic partnership with the Nigerian Army in the ongoing fight against kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.

Mr Okpebholo made this known on Wednesday when he received the commander of the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, Maj.-Gen. Nansak Danjuma Shagaya, alongside other senior officers, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Benin.

The governor said the collaboration between the Edo government and security agencies, particularly the Army, was already producing measurable results in the fight against insecurity.

“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,” the governor said.

He commended the gallantry and sacrifice of the soldiers, noting that their relentless operations had 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 added.

The governor further assured 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.

“We are ready to sustain and even deepen our partnership, especially in supporting the FOBs set up in some parts of the state.

“Please convey my appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for his leadership and commitment to securing our people,” Mr Okpebholo stated.

On the flooding challenges affecting the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport in Isiohor, the governor explained that immediate intervention might be constrained by the ongoing rainy season and established procurement procedures.

“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.

“We had similar flooding issues at Ekenwan Barracks, and we intervened successfully.

“The area is now in a much better condition. We will study the situation at Isiohor and determine how best to address it,” he assured.

In his remarks, Mr 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 and across the country.

The Army commander also appealed for government’s intervention to tackling the persistent flooding affecting the school and surrounding communities in the Isiohor and Ugbowo axis.

Beyond security, he sought collaboration in areas such as capacity building, youth engagement, driver refresher courses, catering services, and firefighting support.

He noted that the renewed partnership underscored Edo government’s intensified security strategy aimed at curbing kidnapping, strengthening military-civil relations, and improving safety across the state. 

(NAN)