Governor Peter Mbah says Enugu State will strengthen its existing partnership with the Nigerian Army to consolidate the current peace and conducive business environment.

Mr Mbah said this at the 2023 West African Social Activities (WASA) of 82 Division of the Nigerian Army in Abakpa Military Cantonment, Enugu, on Saturday.

The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Chidiebere Onyia, noted that the state needed the help of the Nigerian Army to create a conducive environment for the state to grow its target of monumental economic expansion.

According to him, the Nigerian Army remains instrumental in the ban on the illegitimate sit-at-home and checkmating activities of criminals and violent groups in the state.

Mr Mbah, who thanked army chief Taoreed Lagbaja and other top military officers for efforts to fight insecurity, said the partnership was pertinent to create a peaceful environment.

“To build the modern Enugu State of our dream and its needed economic expansion, we need the partnership with the Nigerian Army to create a peaceful, friendly and secure environment for financial and human activities to continue to strive.

“As a state, we will continue to nurture this partnership and ensure more positive outcomes as we join hands to make Enugu State the safest destination of all Nigerians and foreigners,” he said.

In an address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada said WASA was an annual event in furtherance of the Nigerian Army’s rich customs and traditions.

Mr Dada said the event was important because it brings officers, soldiers, their families and friends together for close social interaction at the end of each year.

The GOC assured the residents of the division’s area of responsibility (AOR) of improved and adequate protection while soliciting their cooperation in 2024.

“We call on residents to assist the Nigerian Army and security agencies with timely security information as well as dial the toll-free “193” and press option 2 to get immediate security assistance when needed from troops of the Division,” he said.

(NAN)