PHOTO: SAMUEL JIBUNOR
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Tuesday commissioned 30 one-bedroom flats for officers and soldiers of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, Agbor, in Ika South Local Government Area, pledging sustained support for the welfare of security personnel in the state.
The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, said the housing project was not just about new buildings but a reaffirmation of government’s commitment to the wellbeing of soldiers and to the security architecture that guarantees peace and development.
He commended former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (rtd), for his role in attracting the barracks to Delta, and lauded President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its renewed focus on addressing security challenges across the country. Oborevwori also expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army, particularly the 63 Brigade and the 181 Amphibious Battalion, for their sacrifices in combating oil theft, criminality, and other threats to peace in the region.
“The 30 units of one-bedroom flats we are commissioning today symbolize our determination to improve the living conditions of the men and women who daily put their lives on the line for our safety. Decent accommodation for our soldiers is not only about welfare; it is about boosting morale and enabling them to discharge their duties with even greater dedication,” the governor said.
Oborevwori stressed that the project aligns with the Meaningful Development and Enhanced Peace and Security pillars of his administration’s MORE Agenda, insisting that development and security must always go hand in hand.
Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele, explained that the contract, awarded in March 2023, provided for the construction of 30 one-bedroom flats for officers and soldiers of the battalion. He commended the governor for ensuring its completion, describing it as a bold step in supporting the Army and strengthening security in Delta State.
Commanding Officer of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, Lt. Col. Bukar Dabo, also thanked the state government, noting that the housing units would greatly enhance personnel welfare and contribute to sustaining peace in the area.
Welcoming guests earlier, Chairman of Ika South Local Government Council, Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior, applauded the governor for approving the project, stressing that the Army’s presence had significantly improved security of lives and property in the locality.
Similarly, the representative of the Dein of Agbor, Chief Boniface Ebite, said the Agbor people were proud of the governor’s achievements. He noted that the town’s strategic location made the project particularly significant and assured the governor of the continued support of the Agbor people.
The event was attended by top military officers, senior government officials, political leaders and dignitaries, including the Commander of 63 Brigade, Brig. Gen. M. A. Shonibare.
