Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has given the sum of N1m each to about 39 wounded soldiers of the South-East ‘Operation Udoka’ operatives who were injured in their duty of fighting insecurity in the South-East region.
Soludo announced this during a special Sallah luncheon to celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir, organised by the Commander, Joint Taskforce of South-East ‘Operation Udoka’ and Commander of 82 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, held at the 302 Artillery Regiment, Onitsha Military Cantonment on Saturday.
The event was also attended by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-General Olufemi Oluyede, who was represented by Major General Adewale Adekeye, held to celebrate the gallant officers.
The “Operation Udoka” is an establishment of the Chief of Army Staff with the mandate to tackle criminality and banditry in the South-East region.
During the event, Soludo, who commended the galant soldiers, including the Navy, air force, civil defence, DSS, Nigerian Police and Agunaechemba operatives, urged the Nigerian Army to work alongside his administration to ramp up efforts against crime in the state.
He said that apart from the monetary gift, the wounded soldiers would also access free medical care and treatment in the state’s hospitals for working tirelessly to ensure the state and the region are safe.
He said, “Today, we are here for a special Sallah lunch with the officers and men of the Nigerian Army 302 Artillery Regiment Onitsha Barracks.
“I want to express my deepest appreciation for their unwavering dedication in protecting our nation’s territorial integrity. The success of ‘Operation Udoka’ in keeping Anambra State and the South-East region safe is truly commendable.
“I want to specifically appreciate the G.O.C here. We are confident that with our own G. O. C here, he is making fundamental differences day by day. I got a report in Ebonasea in Ihiala, Mbosi, Isseke, and Lilu that criminals are feeling the heat because of the gallant effort of our soldiers.”
Soludo further commended the soldiers, adding that their efforts have been yielding positive results.
“The criminals are on the run. The other line of battle is defined and I want to pray that in no distant time, all those who are loitering in other criminal camps, that their days are numbered and we want to believe, indeed their days are numbered. Thanks to our gallant officers who are struggling everyday to make us safe.
“We assured the wounded soliders that they would be treated in the state-owned health care centres, and each of the 39 of them would get ₦1Million each for their effort in tackling criminalities in the region. Thank you for your service, we will continue to work together for the peace of our land. May Anambra continue to win!, he added.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Commander of 82 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, said the event was not just about celebration, but also “show of togetherness, reflection and dedication to service”.
Olatoye stressed the importance of the event, saying it is important that the officers recognise what it means to stand shoulder to shoulder not as personnel in uniform, but as brothers and sisters committed to one mission which is the defence and unity of Nigeria.
He said, “We are proud of each and everyone under this Command and other security agencies for their resilience in the face of the threats, professionalism in executing your duties and doggedness in difficult operating environments.
“The efforts of the officers at the theater of operations continue to speak volume not too noisy, but results. The 82 Division Nigerian Army and Joint Taskforce South East ‘Operation Udoka’ maintained posture and act swiftly and decisively when it matters most in the threater operation.
“Your vigilant and sacrifice often go unpublished and never unnoticed and your family may not see what you endure, but be rest assured that your services are deeply appreciated and respected.”
In his address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Oluyemi Oluyede, represented by Major General Adewele Adekeye, described the occasion as a significant event in the lives of the gallant officers.
He added that the moment reflected on the values that define the officers as personnel of Nigerian Army and indeed members of the Armed forces of Nigeria, working together with constituted civilian authorities to ensure that peace and harmony is maintained while upholding law and order.
“The Chief of Army Staff in his wisdom has initiated the Soldiers force policy not just as a guiding principle, but a fact that will underscore our commitment to the welfare and well-being of all personnels.
“We are proud to see all of you today to come out to show your embody, that spirit that puts all other citizens ahead of yourself working tirelessly to ensure that peace and security of our great Nation is maintained, especially within the joint taskforce of area of responsibility of operation Udoka.
“Let me take this opportunity to express my deepest appreciation to the outstanding effort of the troops of this operation. Your bravery, your resilience, your dedication to duty are not done unnoticed. I must appreciate and commend your resilience that you have recorded in the operation which is a testament. So, I appreciate the efforts you put in to making sure that this region is secured,” the COAS added.
He further lauded the troops for their numerous successes, including the recent seizure of a truck containing more than 6,600 arms and ammunition.
