By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has concluded a three-day operational visit to formations and units under the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, where he commissioned several signature projects, engaged troops, and paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno.
In an official statement signed by Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, it was disclosed that the visit underscored the Army Chief’s resolve to strengthen operational capacity, improve the welfare of personnel, and consolidate civil-military cooperation in the Niger Delta region.
While in Port Harcourt Barracks, General Oluyede commissioned the Headquarters 6 Division Office Complex Extension and the Python Harmony Centre. He further inaugurated projects executed by 6 Division Garrison under Brigadier General S. Ahmed, including two blocks of 10-family Corporal and Below Quarters (CBQs), seven remodeled CBQs, a remodeled cantonment office, and a newly constructed Petroleum Oil Lubricant Point. At 29 Battalion, he also commissioned a remodeled Quarter Guard and an additional 10-family CBQs, among others.
His tour continued at 16 Brigade in Bayelsa State, where he unveiled the newly built Brigade Annex Complex, executed under the leadership of Brigade Commander Brigadier General Oluremi Obolo, alongside a garrison house constructed by Lieutenant Colonel Sheriff Kaigama. He also inaugurated an electrification project undertaken by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), remodeled the 5 Battalion Quarter Guard, renovated the 343 Artillery Regiment Commanding Officer’s House, commissioned a newly installed transformer, and performed the groundbreaking ceremony for 20 units of two-bedroom flats for Senior Non-Commissioned Officers at Elele Barracks. At Wellington Barracks in Ibagwa, Akwa Ibom State, the COAS inspected the newly remodeled and renovated Medical Reception Station.
As part of his leadership engagement, General Oluyede paid a courtesy visit to the Akwa Ibom State Governor at Government House, Uyo. During the visit, he reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army belongs to all Nigerians and expressed appreciation for the state government’s continued support, which he said has contributed to Akwa Ibom being one of the most peaceful states in the country.
Responding, Governor Umo Eno lauded the Nigerian Army for its pivotal role in sustaining peace, security, and development in Akwa Ibom. He commended the robust civil-military cooperation fostered through 2 Brigade under Brigadier General Alex Tawasimi and pledged continued partnership and support to the Army in carrying out its constitutional duties.
General Oluyede also addressed troops at 29 Battalion Parade Ground in Port Harcourt and 6 Battalion Parade Ground in Ibagwa, Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. He commended them for their unwavering commitment to anti-oil theft and pipeline protection operations, reassuring that his “soldier first” philosophy places the welfare of troops at the top of his priorities.
The visit, which combined operational oversight with infrastructural development and strategic partnership, further consolidates the Army’s resolve to strengthen operational efficiency while deepening civil-military relations in the Niger Delta.
