The Nigerian military on on Monday launched ‘Operation Golden Dawn’, to provide security in Anambra State ahead of the November 6 gubernatorial election.
This is following the growing insecurity situation in the state which had claimed scores of lives and property in the state.
The operation was inaugurated at Igbariam, Anambra East Local Government Area of the state by 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support).
Speaking, during the flag-off, Commander, 302 Artillery Regiment, Col. Abdulkarim Usman said the exercise, slated for October 4 to December 23, 2021, would serve as an avenue to combat insecurity and foster inter-agency cooperation.
He said it was necessary for the Nigerian Army to assist the civil authority in conjunction with other security agencies to curb the security threats in the State, soliciting for the cooperation of the people of the area for the success of the exercise.
He said, “The operation is meant to practice command and staff of combat arms and services in planning and conduct of Military Operation Other Than War, MOOTW, to confront security challenges within their area of responsibility in conjunction with other security agencies.
“The threats range from secessionist agitations by the Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN).
“Others are banditry, kidnapping, cultist activities, land disputes clashes, communal clashes, chieftaincy issues clashes, assassinations and youths restiveness. To curb these countless security challenges, a robust posture is what the unit has always maintained”
While commending the troops and other security agencies for their tremendous efforts in keeping the State safe and secure, Usman stressed that more needed to be done to combat the heightened security threats in the state.
“The Regiment under the leadership of Major General T. A Lagbaja is currently undergoing unprecedented changes. The Regiment and indeed 82 Division have continued to benefit immensely from the Chief of Army Staff, COAS transformational drive.
“Remarkable improvements have been recorded, particularly in the refurbishment of Armoured Fighting Vehicles, procurement of new platforms, upgrading of training facilities and construction of new accommodation for officers and soldiers among others.
“These transformational efforts have greatly enhanced the welfare and operational capabilities of the troops. It is therefore my fervent hope that the exercise will record successes.”
The Caretaker President General of Igbariam Community, Chief Anthony Obueh described the military presence in the area as a confidence booster towards securing peace and security in the community and the state at large.
He assured the military of maximum cooperation to ensure the exercise was hitch-free.
