From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Government, has welcomed the deployment of additional Nigerian Army troops to Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area, describing the move as a major boost to strengthen security and tackle banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who spoke during a military parade held in his honour as part of the reception for the newly deployed troops, said the deployment was in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to addressing emerging security challenges in Kwara and other parts of the country.
AbdulRazaq said the arrival of the troops demonstrated the seriousness attached to protecting residents and securing communities across the state.
“We came to address them and welcome them to Omu-Aran, appreciate what they are doing and appreciate the Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, President Bola Tinubu,” the governor said.
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He assured the military of state government’s cooperation and support, saying the government would work closely with the security agencies to ensure the new formation settles down quickly and commences operations effectively.
“This is a call for duty. This is internal security. It is beyond the normal conventional warfare and the military is trained to adapt. We believe they will adapt and do their duty as needed,” AbdulRazaq said.
The governor added: “Everything is set to go. Kwara State is going to be protected completely by the military. We appreciate the deployment.”
The state government said five new Army battalions had been approved for Kwara as part of the Federal Government’s broader effort to strengthen its security architecture.
It also disclosed that the brigade currently stationed in Kwara would be relocated to Bode Saadu, while another military team had visited Patigi to identify and prepare a suitable location for an additional battalion.
The government further welcomed the establishment of Division 9 of the Nigerian Army in the state, noting that the presence of the division’s General Officer Commanding (GOC) indicated that arrangements for the new military structure were already taking shape.
According to the state government, the expanded military presence would enhance the capacity of security forces to respond to threats and protect vulnerable communities, particularly areas facing security challenges.
On the welfare of the newly deployed personnel, AbdulRazaq disclosed that the state government had provided a welfare package to assist the soldiers in settling into their new environment.
He, however, described President Tinubu’s recent approval of improved salaries and welfare packages for military personnel as a more significant step towards boosting the morale and effectiveness of troops.
The governor said the state’s welfare intervention was only a modest contribution to support the soldiers as they commence their assignment in Omu-Aran.
He urged the troops to remain focused, confident and committed to their responsibility, assuring them that the state government would continue to support efforts aimed at ensuring the safety of residents and communities across Kwara.
