FG Pledges Enhanced Security for South-East, Reaffirms Commitment to Business Prosperity

… Adequate Security is Vital for Economic Growth – Defence Minister Badaru

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening security in the South-East region, emphasizing that peace and safety are indispensable for business and community prosperity.

This assurance was delivered by the Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, during his operational tour of the region.

While addressing officers and personnel of the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army and the Joint Task Force South-East (Operation UDO KA) under the command of Major General H.T. Dada in Enugu, the Minister lauded their dedication and urged them to intensify their efforts to combat insecurity.

He also engaged with key stakeholders, including security agency heads, traditional rulers, students, and community leaders, in a dialogue to foster collaborative strategies for addressing security challenges in the region.

“President Tinubu has directed me to engage with you all to find sustainable solutions to insecurity. Without security, there can be no peace or development,” the Minister stated.

He acknowledged the industrious nature of the South-East populace and highlighted the critical role of security in ensuring business prosperity.

“We seek your candid suggestions and information on how we can practically enhance security and foster lasting peace in this region,” he added.

The Minister further detailed the progress made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration over the past year in addressing insecurity nationwide.

He reassured stakeholders of the government’s unwavering determination to eradicate insecurity in the South-East.

Major General Hassan Dada, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, disclosed that robust security measures are being implemented under Operation UDO KA to ensure a safe and peaceful festive season in the region.

“Our goal is to create a secure atmosphere that supports the usual mass return for Christmas,” Dada said.

In his remarks, retired Major General John Nwoga highlighted the impact of social media on exacerbating insecurity, urging citizens to combat the spread of misleading information.

“The circulation of old and misleading videos on social media instills unnecessary fear and panic. We must collectively address this issue,” he cautioned.

The Minister’s operational tour also took him to Imo State, where he addressed troops at the Forward Operating Base in Okigwe, the 211 Quick Response Group of the Nigerian Air Force in Owerri, and the Naval Base in Oguta.

He conveyed President Tinubu’s appreciation for their dedication and urged them to build on their successes.

During a courtesy visit to Governor Hope Uzodimma, the Defence Minister commended the Governor’s unwavering support for the Nigerian Army’s 82 Division and the Joint Task Force South-East.

“Your contributions to our operational success are deeply appreciated by all officers and men,” Badaru noted.

The Ministry of Defence remains steadfast in its mission to create a secure and peaceful environment that fosters business growth and community development in the South-East region.