The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army and Land Component Commander (LCC) of Joint Task Force (JTF), South South (SS), Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, has emphasized the need for sustained inter-agency cooperation during his first operational visit to Sector 3 Headquarters in Ogoloma, Okrika LGA, Rivers State on February 11, 2025.
Emekah highlighted the shared objectives among security agencies in protecting national assets, applauding the troops for their role in diminishing oil theft and pipeline vandalism. He urged them to escalate efforts against economic saboteurs to meet the Federal Government’s oil production targets.
“Your task of protecting critical national infrastructure remains paramount. Continue to work in synergy with other agencies to ensure that oil thieves are kept out of business. Together, we can meet and surpass the Federal Government’s target for increased oil production,” he remarked.
Sector 3 JTF OPDS Commander, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, during the visit, outlined improvements in logistics like boat maintenance and infrastructure to boost operational effectiveness, reaffirming the sector’s dedication to its mission.
In addition to his operational visit, Major General Emekah met with the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, His Royal Majesty King Ateke Michael Tom, to introduce himself formally as the new GOC. He praised the king’s efforts in fostering peace and solicited continued support from traditional leaders to combat criminal activities.
Emekah stressed the pivotal role of traditional rulers in peacebuilding, saying, “I acknowledge the role of traditional rulers in peacebuilding, commending King Ateke for his contributions to stability in Rivers State. He urged the monarch to continue advocating for peace and called on vandals to desist from illegal activities for the nation’s economic growth.”
King Ateke responded by underlining the significance of peace for any progress, stating, “Without peace, we cannot succeed in any endeavor.” He committed to supporting security forces in curbing crime within his jurisdiction.
This visit marks a strategic initiative by the Nigerian Army to engage with local leaders and stakeholders to enhance security and promote economic stability in the Niger Delta region.