Army Launches A Security Operation In Bayelsa

In order to combat pipeline vandalism, cultism, illegal oil refining, kidnapping, and other crimes in Bayelsa, the Nigerian Army has launched a security operation known as Exercise Still Waters III.

In Otuokpoti, the state’s Ogbia Local Government Area, the exercise was officially launched on Tuesday.

The military’s participation in the exercise was praised by Gov. Douye Diri of Bayelsa, who emphasized the importance of security for ensuring good governance.

He applauded the operation and noted that Bayelsa was getting ready for an off-cycle governorship election as the nation approached the holiday season.

In addition, Diri praised the military’s efforts to make the state safer for everyone and urged them to keep up their proactive efforts.

In order to maintain peace in Bayelsa, Diri promised security organizations the support of the state government.

He praised the Chief of Army Staff for maintaining the exercise and asserted that the success of earlier security drills had made a significant contribution to the state’s peaceful holiday season.

“In our state, as we all know, the ember months are a time when crime is more prevalent.

“In order to stop criminal activity, as well as, more importantly, for the governorship election, it is necessary to put the necessary machinery in place.

“Since taking office, I have prioritized our citizens’ security, as this is the foundation of good governance. The two eyes of our people’s sleep are closed, as I have made sure.

He continued, “I appreciate the sacrifices and commitment of our brave forces, which have helped lower crime in our state.

According to The General Officer Commander (GOC) of the Nigerian Army’s 6th Division, Maj. -Gen. Jamal Abdussalam, the exercise would concentrate on important facets of cyber warfare to counter false information spread on social media.

The GOC further stated that it would address additional security issues that arose at the year’s end.

He gave the assurance that members of the Nigerian Army were prepared to pay any price necessary to ensure the country’s security and peace.

Commanders from other security formations were praised by Abdussalam for their involvement in and support of the state’s efforts to maintain peace and security.

Earlier, the commander of the 16th Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brig. -Gen. Sadisu Yakassai, said the exercise was created to address all security-related issues in Bayelsa, and it also included key players in the security architecture.

He claimed that the exercise was designed to prevent criminal activities like pipeline vandalism, cultism, illegal oil refining, and kidnapping, among others.

According to the commander, it was also planned to get the troops ready for the Nov. election for governor in 2011.

NAN reports that in addition to a free medical outreach for Otuokpoti residents, the inauguration included a gunboat display demonstrating the military’s readiness to counter any security threat.