Why Army Commissions Projects in Jos Military Cantonment- Gen Buratai
It gives me great pleasure to visit Maxwell Khobe Cantonment to see officers and soldiers of this frontline Division in our fight against Boko Haram Terrorists. It is even more gratifying to be here to commission a number of projects executed by the General Officer Commanding, Major General BI Ahanotu.
It has been a while since I last visited Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, however, the remarkable infrastructural development I see is heartwarming. The driveway to Headquarters 3 Division and the car park extension are having a more befitting look.
The 82 Battalion Headquarters has been renovated, and the Commanding Officer and his staff would no doubt have a more conducive working environment. As you may be aware, I served in 82 battalion several years ago as Second in Command. So, it gives me great pleasure to visit my former Battalion again.
The lack of pipe borne water supply in the Cantonment which had been a problem for about 25 years, is being rehabilitated. The road networks in the Cantonment are wearing a new look. Some Senior Non Commissioned Officers blocks have been renovated, to alleviate the challenges of accommodation within the Cantonment.
Above all, this ultra-modern Soldiers’ Club will boost the morale of Corporals and below. It is beautiful and quite commendable; I believe it is the first of its kind.
Other divisions will sure take a cue from this. Furthermore, a good number of vehicles have been refurbished within the Cantonment which has improved the lift capacity of the Division, thereby adding value to Operation LAFIYA DOLE. The 3 Division Hospital and Medical Services is also being renovated and would certainly in improve healthcare delivery to officers, soldiers and their families.
Last but not the least, the establishment of a Fire Station for the Cantonment is a laudable accomplishment, particularly during this Harmattan Season.
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I am aware, in the last 2 weeks; there have been 3 fire incidences that were expeditiously put out by your local Fire Fighters within the Cantonment. These achievements are all in tandem with my vision and aspirations for the Nigerian Army to be professionally responsive. The commitment of the officers and soldiers of this Division therefore deserve my commendation.
The welfare of our troops and members of their families will continue to receive my highest priority. The renovations and constructions so far done are aimed at improving your living conditions and the wellbeing of troops and their families. The General Officer Commanding has also briefed me on the other areas that would require intervention. I pledge to give the necessary support and encouragement within the limit of resources to sustain this level of welfare to enhance your efficiency in the discharge of your constitutional roles.
I appreciate the efforts of the General Officer Commanding, and must congratulate him and his officers for such great feat within the short period he has been in command. I am delighted with the singular opportunity to commission, the projects and to show appreciation to officers and soldiers for their service and commitment to our fatherland, to restore peace and security in the North East.
I must make haste to add, however, that you all must remain focused on our goal to defeat terrorism and insurgency from our country. I urge you to remain loyal to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR by remaining disciplined, focused and responsive to our constitutional roles. You must not waver, do not fret; remain undaunted and resolute in tackling the current security challenge. You must continue to obey the Rules of Law and Engagement. We must continue to respect the Fundamental Human Rights of law abiding citizens we have been trained to protect. I want to assure you that the Federal Government is fully committed to your welfare and the provision of requisite logistics support for the Nigerian Army to perform its roles effectively. I am convinced we will prevail soon, and very soon too.
Let me conclude by extending my warm greetings to officers and soldiers of this Cantonment and the ‘Rhino’ families during this Yuletide Season, as we look forward to making greater progress in Year 2018. Congratulations and well done.
Lt. General Tukur Buratai
Chief of Army Staff
Abuja
