From Msuur Akase, Makurdi
Benue State governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, has pledged the full support of his administration for the establishment of the newly approved Nigerian Army formations in the state, including the construction and furnishing of the headquarters of the new 5 Division.
The Governor made the commitment yesterday, when he received a delegation from the Army Headquarters Implementation Committee at the Old Banquet Hall of Government House, Makurdi.
Describing the establishment of the military formations as a major step towards improving security in Benue, Alia expressed confidence that the development would strengthen the state’s security architecture and restore public confidence.
According to him, the people of Benue had long looked forward to a stronger military presence in the state because of the security challenges they have faced over the years, expressing optimism that the new division will help change the state’s security situation for the better.
The Governor assured that the Benue State Government would provide land for all the approved military formations and units in the state, also promising to provide the logistics needed to ensure the smooth takeoff of the new division.
He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the new Army formations and for locating the headquarters of the 5 Division in Benue State,also expressing appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff and the leadership of the Nigerian Army for the decision.
The governor equally paid tribute to officers and soldiers who have lost their lives while defending the country and praised security personnel serving in Benue for their sacrifices in protecting lives and property.
He congratulated Major-General Moses Gara on his appointment as the pioneer General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 5 Division, assuring him of the state government’s continued cooperation with the Nigerian Army.
The Army Headquarters Implementation Committee is in Benue to carry out the Federal Government’s approval for the establishment of new military formations and units.
The visit is expected to pave the way for the takeoff of the new 5 Division and other approved military units in the state.
The delegation was led by Major-General Raymond Utsaha, and was accompanied by the pioneer GOC of the 5 Division, Gara.