By 
By Usman Aliyu
Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo has applauded the Nigerian Army for its support on the unprecedented successes in curbing criminal activities in the state.
Obaseki gave the commendation in Benin during his remark at the occasion of the West African Social Activities (WASA) of the Nigerian Army Cantonment, Ekehuan.
The governor, represented by Mr Thompson Eromosele, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Security and Safety, appreciated the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Benin.
He thanked the army for its efforts at ensuring a peaceful coexistence with its host community as well as the general populace.
According to him, presence of the military in the state has boosted public confidence, and ensured the safety of lives and property of the peace loving people of Edo.
“This provided a secured environment for the peace loving people of Edo State to celebrate both Christmas and New Year freely,” he said.
The governor extended the gratitude to other security agencies for playing a complementary support towards ensuring peace and a crime-free society.
“Their gallant, patriotic and dedicated commitment to the peaceful atmosphere in the state is highly instrumental to the huge successes recorded thus far,” he said.
Obaseki described WASA as an occasion that afforded military officers an opportunity to unwind and relax.
“I want to appreciate the family members of our dear officers and men of the 4 Brigade for their patience and for keeping the homefront while their spouses and parents are away on military duties,” said the governor.
Earlier in his address of welcome, Commander of the 4 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Olusesan Oduyebo, said the occasion was an accepted aged-long military tradition aimed at creating a social and conducive atmosphere for the relaxation of officers, soldiers and their families.
Oduyebo, however, said that WASA has, in this contemporary times, become an avenue where the formation/units showcase its achievements.
“On this note, I wish to state with all sense of humility that we were able to achieve the Brigade’s training objectives for 2023, which was to improve professionalism and sustain regimentation.
“This was made possible by the zeal and determination of officers and soldiers of 4 Brigade.
“To this end, permit me to thank the General Officer Commanding 2 Division for his commitment to the actualisation of the 4 Brigade 2023 Training Directives and the welfare of its personnel.
“The Year 2024 has started with enthusiasm and high hopes of further actualising the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy.
“This philosophy is, ‘To Transform The Nigerian Army Into A Well-Trained, Equipped And Highly Motivated Force Towards Achieving Our Constitutional Responsibilities Within A Joint Environment,’” he said.
The Brigade commander said he would consolidate on the gains of the past year through improved discipline and sustained training to meet the Nigerian Army’s constitutional roles.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlights of the event was the presentation of award to officers who distinguished themselves in discharging their duties, cultural troupes display and lighting of the camp fire. NAN
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