Army Commends Edo Govt As Okpebholo Deepens Military Partnership Against Kidnapping

 

By Idahosa Musa

The Nigerian Army has commended the Edo State Government for its sustained support in the fight against kidnapping and other criminal activities, as Governor Monday Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to deepen collaboration with the military to secure the state.

This came on Wednesday when the Commander, Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, Major General Nansak Danjuma Shagaya, led a delegation of senior officers on a courtesy visit to Government House, Benin.

Governor Okpebholo said the synergy between the Edo State Government and the military, particularly the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, was yielding tangible results, with sustained operations reducing kidnapping and restoring confidence in several communities.

According to him, the presence of soldiers in forests and flashpoints across the state had brought renewed hope to residents who had lived under fear of criminal gangs.Our partnership with the Nigerian Army is producing results.

“The sacrifices of these gallant officers and men, who spend days combing forests and difficult terrains, have brought relief to our people,” the governor said.

He assured the Army of continued government backing, especially in strengthening Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in strategic locations to enhance response time and intelligence-led operations.

“We are committed to sustaining and deepening this partnership. Please convey our appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for his leadership and unwavering commitment to securing Edo State,” Okpebholo added.

The governor also responded to concerns raised by the Army over flooding at the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport in Isihor, noting that while immediate intervention was constrained by the rainy season and procurement procedures, the state would study the situation and act accordingly.

“We faced a similar challenge at Ekenwan Barracks and intervened successfully. The situation there has improved significantly. We will assess the Isihor case and determine the best solution,” he assured.

Earlier, Major General Shagaya praised the Edo State Government for its consistent cooperation with the Army, describing the support as critical to ongoing security operations and peace-building efforts.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to sustaining peace, unity and stability in Edo State, while appealing for government intervention to address flooding affecting the Isihor and Ugbowo axis.

Beyond security, the Army commander sought stronger collaboration with the state in areas such as youth engagement, capacity building, driver refresher training, catering services and firefighting support.

Observers say the renewed engagement reflects a broader security strategy by the Edo State Government to consolidate recent gains against kidnapping, strengthen civil-military relations and improve safety across the state.