The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has commended the Nigerian Army for strengthening security and promoting stability in the ancient Oyo Kingdom.
Oba Owoade gave the commendation when the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, paid homage to him at his palace in Oyo during his tour of newly established Army formations and units.
The monarch expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army for reinforcing its commitment to the security of the kingdom, assuring the military of his support for the newly established 7 Brigade.
He pledged to do everything possible to ensure that personnel of the Brigade enjoy a conducive stay in the kingdom, describing the people of Oyo as hospitable and accommodating.
Oba Owoade also thanked the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for approving the establishment of the Brigade in Oyo, saying the development would further strengthen security in the area.
Responding, the GOC, in a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, said his visit was primarily to ensure that the initial troops deployed to the new Brigade settled properly and were able to discharge their constitutional responsibilities effectively.
Major General Mahmuda explained that the establishment of the Brigade was part of the strategic vision of the COAS to expand the presence of the Nigerian Army and deploy more troops to effectively respond to contemporary security challenges.
He said Oyo was therefore selected as a strategic location for the new Brigade, while thanking the Alaafin, on behalf of the COAS, for his support for the troops, particularly the accommodation provided for them since their arrival.
The GOC also interacted with community leaders in the area, assuring them that the newly established formations and units had come to stay.
He said the Nigerian Army would continue to work with the communities to promote peace and stability, thereby creating an environment conducive to socio-economic activities in the area.