WRITTEN BY KENECHUKWU OFOMAH
The State Government has reiterated its commitment to promoting cordial relationship between civilians and the military.
Governor Willie Obiano stated this when he inaugurated some projects at the Onitsha Naval out Post in Odekpe, Ogbaru Local Government Area.
The projects which Governor Obiano was joined in its inauguration by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas, were Naval Administrative Block, Armoury, Officers and Ratings Accommodation, Water and Electrification facilities.
The Governor who during the event also laid the foundation stone for Officer’s Mess at the post acknowledged that the Nigerian Navy has been very instrumental in the numerous joint Security operations that sacked criminals from Ogbaru saying that his administration believes that the partnership between them and the state must be sustained to ensure that the security which Ndi Anambra is enjoying is consolidated.
He explained that through the cordial military and civil relationship in the State, a lot of successes have been recorded as the people are now more willing to support and volunteer services that have made the job of the military, easier.
The Governor commended the Naval outpost for supporting government’s efforts at checking the activities of illegal sand excavators in the Ogbaru area, promising that as its resources permit, the State government will continue to assist them to effectively play their role in the state’s Security arrangement.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibas, explained that the projects were in line with the strategic objective of the Naval Headquarters towards enhancing the Force’s operational capacities and improving personnel efficiency, adding that with the facilities, the outpost will effectively complete its task to enable it be upgraded to a Naval Base.
He thanked Governor Obiano for his benevolence towards the Navy and assured that Officers and Ratings of the Force will reciprocate his gesture with increased commitment to duty.
Earlier, the Flag Officer Commanding the Central Naval Command, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Rear Admiral Mohammed Garba said the initiative is a demonstration of their commitment to providing a conducive working environment for Officers and men of the Onitsha Naval Outpost with a view to improving on their efficiency.
In their separate remarks, the traditional ruler of Odekpe, Igwe Emmanuel Onyia and his Atani counterpart, Igwe Ngoodi expressed optimism that the siting of the outpost will boost security in the entire Ogbaru waterways.
 The Governor in company of the Chief of Naval Staff was later conducted on an inspection tour of the facilities during which they were also inaugurated.
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