BENIN CITY — The Nigeria Citizens Watch for Good Governance and the Edo People’s Initiative for Peace and Security have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of the 83 Division of the Nigerian Army in Benin City, describing the development as a significant step towards strengthening security in Edo State and the South-South region.
The groups made their position known during a joint peaceful rally held in Benin City to celebrate the establishment of the new Army division.
In a joint speech read by the Chairman of the Edo People’s Initiative for Peace and Security, Comrade Innocent Ajayi, the groups expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for bringing a dedicated military command closer to the people of Edo and neighbouring states.
They said the establishment of the division was particularly significant given the security challenges confronting communities in the region, including kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and other forms of criminality.
According to the groups, the presence of the 83 Division in Benin City would facilitate faster response to security threats, strengthen intelligence gathering and improve coordination between the military, police and other security agencies.
They also said the division would enhance surveillance of major roads, farmlands, waterways and border communities, while restoring the confidence of farmers, traders and residents to pursue their legitimate activities without fear.
The groups commended the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for their leadership and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
They described the establishment of the division as evidence that the expansion and reorganisation of the Nigerian Army was moving from policy to practical implementation.
The groups also congratulated the General Officer Commanding the 83 Division, urging him to justify the confidence reposed in him by the military authorities and the people of Edo State.
They pledged to support the officers and soldiers of the division and to promote peaceful and lawful conduct among residents, while serving as a bridge between local communities and security agencies.
The groups, however, appealed to President Tinubu to sustain his support for the military by providing the necessary resources, equipment and institutional backing required to effectively tackle insecurity.
They stressed that the fight against insecurity could not be won through military courage alone, but required sustained funding, effective coordination and strong political support.
The groups further noted that peace and security were essential to economic development, saying a safer environment would attract investment, promote commerce and agriculture, create employment opportunities and improve the overall wellbeing of the people.
They pledged their continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening security, unity and good governance in Edo State and Nigeria.
The groups described the 83 Division as a symbol of hope and a new opportunity for the people of Edo and neighbouring states to enjoy greater peace and security.
They urged residents to cooperate with the military and other security agencies by providing useful information and supporting lawful efforts to maintain peace across the state.
