By Eseoghene Emuke
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State says governors of the South-South geopolitical zone are committed to the peace and security of the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
Okowa stated this on Wednesday when the new General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Maj.-Gen. Olubunmi Irefin, paid him a courtesy visit in Asaba.
The governor posited that governors of the region have always partner and support the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the region in the area of for adequate security.
Okowa, who is the chairman of South-South governors, expressed delight that criminality especially sea piracy has reduced in the region.
He noted that his administration would continue to work for the overall peace and development of Delta.
The governor said, “We are happy that sea piracy has reduced in Delta and we pledge the support of the South-South states to ensure protection of oil installations in the region.
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“I assure you of our cooperation at all times because we have had very warm working relations with the division since inception.
“The military and other security agencies have worked quite a lot with us to ensure peace within the state. There is still a lot to be done but we have done quite a lot.”
The governor commended the army formations for cooperating with other security agencies to ensure peace in Niger Delta.
Okowa added, “I appreciate your division, the brigade and other military formations for all your efforts in ensuring peace and security in the entire Niger Delta.
“Sea piracy is still there, but it has largely reduced in Delta and we will continue to work hard and provide the needed support because when there is a perfect working relationship, to support becomes easier.
“Information sharing is necessary to secure our state, and here in Delta, community conflicts are stepped into as quickly as possible because of the various peace mechanisms we have put in place.
“We have had a very good working relationship and we hope to continue in that direction.”
Earlier, Maj.-Gen. Irefin informed the Governor Okowa that he was in the state to familiarise himself with the state government and military information in the state.
The GOC pledged his commitment to partner other security agencies to sustain the prevailing peace and security in the states within the division.
