Enugu state Government  has commended the 82 Division of Nigerian Army for its commitment in ensuring peace and security of lives and properties  in the  state, while assuring  continous partnership  with them and other security agencies.

The State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah, gave the assurance during the  2023 West African Social Activities (WASA) of 82 Division of the Nigerian Army held at Abakpa Military Cantonment, Enugu.

Gov. Mbah disclosed that Enugu State will strengthen existing partnership and ties with the Nigerian Army to consolidate on the current peace and security in the state  conducive for a thriving business environment in the state.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Governor Mbah said the state needed the assistance of the Nigerian Army to create a conducive environment to grow its economy from the current $4.4 billion to $33 billion.

He said that the Nigerian Army remains instrumental to the ban of the illegitimate sit-at-home and checkmating activities of criminals and violent groups in the state.

According to him: “The State Government is appreciative of the Nigerian Army on a friutful partnership, which is yielding visible and practical results.

“We want to thank the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for his relentless support as well as the General Officer Commanding (GOC), Maj. Gen. Hassan Dada, and the Garrison Commander for all the efforts they have put in making Enugu State one of the safest in the country.

“To build the modern Enugu State of our dream and its needed economic expansion, we need the partnership of the Nigerian Army to ensure a peace-friendly and secure environment for economic and human activities to continue to thrive.

“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”.

In his welcome  address, Maj-Gen. Lagbaja explained that WASA is an annual event in furtherance of the Nigerian Army’s  rich customs and traditions adding that WASA also marks the end of training year and its activities.

According to the General,  the event was important because it brings officers, soldiers as well as their families and friends together for close social interaction at the end of each year.

He added that it is also an avenue for cordial inter-agency cooperation, synergy and civil-military relations with the civilian populace in Enugu metropolis and its environs.

“We had lots of successful training programmes in 2023 both for troops and officers as well as for various cadres and ranks within the Division.

“We also undertook and inaugurated lots of projects, which included the renovation and remodelling of 82 Division headquarters building, renovation of some blocks in the cantonment, new 82 Officers’ Mass and water reticulation projects among others.

“All these training programmes and projects are made possible by the fatherly support and direction of our amiable Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.

“The Division also appreciate the COAS for approving the event as well as thank Gov. Peter Mbah, our guest of honour and other special guests including our families for gracing this colourful occasion,” the Army boss noted.

He assured the residents of 82 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 toll free “193” and press option 2 to get immediate security assistance when needed from troops of the Division,” he said.

The event which was attended by the immediate past Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, heads of security agencies, Captains of industries, among others, featured award presented to outstanding 24 soldiers from the 24 units under the Division.

it also featured various Nigerian traditional and cultural cuisines, attires ,dances, tug-of-war and lowering of the Nigerian Flag. Gov. Mbah ignited the bonfire, signifying end of the event.