TheCable

Taoreed Lagbaja, the chief of army staff (COAS), says the military will address the problem of insecurity in Enugu state.

 The COAS spoke on Tuesday during a working visit to the state.

He commended Peter Mbah, governor of Enugu, and residents of the state for being good partners in the fight against insecurity.

“The desire of the Nigerian Army aligns perfectly with that of the government and the good people of Enugu State; and that is to rid our society of criminal elements and to ensure that peace and stability prevail for law-abiding citizens going about their lawful businesses,” Lagbaja said.

“I have taken note of the brief of the GOC, 82 Division, and even my private chat with His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, the governor.

“The Army Headquarters will address all issues raised, including having boots on the ground in Isi-Uzo with the desire to rid the area of criminal elements and to ensure that economic activities thrive in that area.

“The army headquarters will take steps to address some dark areas that have been pointed out in a bid to expand the frontiers of our peace and stability in this state.

“I also want to pledge a continuous support of the formations and other units of the Nigerian Army to the effort of the Enugu State Government to ensure that peace reigns in the state.

“The  Nigerian Army will continue to  remain a loyal and worthy partner to you towards realising your wonderful plans for the people of Enugu State.”

On his part, Mbah said with the help of the army, his administration will fulfill the campaign promises it made to the people of the state.

“We executed a social pact with the people of Enugu State. We promised them that we envisioned an Enugu State that would be one of the top three states in the country in terms of gross domestic product, GDP, and that we were going to grow our economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion,” Mbah said.

“We also said to them that we were on a mission to make Enugu State the premier destination for investment, business, tourism, and living.

“We recognise that this growth will not come from the public sector. It would all come from the private sector, and the private sector investment does not agree with insecurity, which is why we spared no time in declaring war on insecurity.

“I must also, at this point, recognise and acknowledge the tireless efforts and commitment you and your men have invested in securing Enugu State.

Today in Enugu State, we can proudly say that we are on the path of fulfilling those promises we made to our people.

“We also want to assure you on our part as a government that we are going to continue to provide necessary support to sustain and indeed improve the state of security in Enugu State.”