The Nigerian Army has pledged to continue its operations to recover military equipment and arms stolen from the Okuama community in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
According to The PUNCH, this commitment was reaffirmed by the General Officer Commanding the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, during a special event on Tuesday.
The occasion marked the inauguration of a newly remodeled and reconstructed transit accommodation for soldiers at the 3 Battalion, Nigerian Army, located in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.
The fully furnished facility, a significant upgrade, includes 68 rooms, 18 toilets and bathrooms, and three central kitchens.
This project was generously constructed and donated by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited a private pipeline surveillance company owned by Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo.
At the inauguration, Maj-Gen Abdussalam expressed deep sorrow over the tragic events of March 14, 2024, when troops were brutally murdered in the Okuama community.
“We remember with sadness the event of March 14, 2024, in the Okuama community where our troops were brutally murdered. We will not rest. We will continue to conduct operations until our equipment and arms are recovered,” he declared.
The GOC emphasized that the new transit accommodation would significantly enhance the welfare of the troops, aligning with the philosophy of Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja.
He noted, “The project would go a long way in lifting the spirit of the personnel,” and commended TSSNL for their commendable contribution. He acknowledged that the facility would benefit the unit, brigade, and the Nigerian Army at large.
Maj-Gen Abdussalam highlighted that the project symbolizes a significant milestone in addressing the critical needs of the troops, underscoring the importance of integrating operational success with strong administrative and welfare support.
He said, “The transit accommodation represents a remarkable milestone as it addresses the critical needs of our troops. The project highlights the impact of corporate social responsibilities in the spirit of joint effort.”
The Managing Director of TSSNL, Mr. Kestin Pondi, who was represented at the event by Captain Warriedi Enisuoh, Executive Director of Operations, Technical, stated that the initiative was a gesture of appreciation for the Nigerian Army.
“As a private security company, we are not allowed to hold arms, a reason we rely on the government security forces. Over time, a lot of them have sacrificed their lives while trying to make sure we live. This project is a holding facility for troops on transfer, to make them feel comfortable,” Pondi said.
He emphasized that the success in protecting against crude oil theft would have been challenging without the support of the military, and the project stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between TSSNL and the Nigerian Army.
