Nigeria’s Army Chief, Taoreed Lagbaja, officially opened the 94-bed Forward Operating Base (FOB) at Egbe, Kogi State. Sen. Sunday Karimi donated the FOB to strengthen security in Kogi West.
Mr. Lagbaja inaugurated the FOB at Egbe on Saturday. He commended Mr. Karimi’s contribution and stated that it will help the state.
The COAS, represented by General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Obinna Onubogu, said the FOB was a monument to the Kogi West senator’s vision, dedication, and collaboration.
I am grateful for your dedication in leading the building and completion of this critical facility.As chief of Army staff, I can declare that this relationship and common vision reassure the Nigeria Army that civil society appreciates our efforts to reduce insecurity.
“I’m confident that this facility will enhance military operations and overall security operations in Egbe and along the Kwara-Kogi border,” Mr. Lagbaja added.
Thus, the COAS assured Kogi residents that the facility would be used as intended.
He thanked Governor Ahmed Ododo for backing the project and the Nigerian Army.
The COAS asked the governor to upgrade the facility’s landscaping to avoid erosion.
He asked 12 Brigade Nigerian Army leaders and troops to serve, honor, and sacrifice.
Governor Ahmed Ododo, represented by state protection adviser Jerry Omodara, underlined that his administration would prioritize life and property protection.
The governor praised Mr. Karimi for the initiative, calling the senator a state pride worth emulating.
Mr. Karimi said he personally funded the project to protect Kogi communities and the bordering states of Ekiti, Kwara, and Osun.
“It is my personal initiative and fully funded by me and my family for the good of our people and neighbouring communities,” Mr. Karimi said.
However, he highlighted that citizen engagement could improve life and property protection.
(NAN)
