CDS reaffirms military commitment, inaugurates defence monitoring team in Rivers State
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces (AFN) to serving the nation.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Defence Headquarters Joint Monitoring Team for military operations in the South-South region,
General Musa emphasized that the AFN remains dedicated to ensuring security and enhancing the nation’s oil production.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Headquarters of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. General Musa outlined the primary role of the monitoring team as optimizing military and security operations in the oil-rich region.
The team’s mission, he said, is to assess the performance of ongoing operations and report to commanders for improvements.
He stressed the importance of collaboration between the Armed Forces and other security agencies, noting that these efforts have already contributed to boosting daily oil production.
The CDS urged the monitoring team to work closely with the Joint Task Force (JTF) South-South Operation DELTA SAFE, other security agencies, and stakeholders in the oil industry to ensure seamless and effective operations.
He referenced a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, mandating an increase in oil production to 2.2 million barrels per day by December 2024.
General Musa underscored that safeguarding critical national infrastructure and maximizing oil production are key aspects of the team’s mandate.
“The nation counts on the loyalty, professionalism, and commitment of our military personnel to secure our national interests,” General Musa said, commending the officers and troops of JTF South-South Operation DELTA SAFE for their dedication to protecting lives and property in the Niger Delta and beyond.
Major General Jamiu Jimoh, Chairman of the Defence Monitoring Team, expressed gratitude to the CDS for entrusting the team with this vital responsibility.
He pledged that the team would work tirelessly to meet the President’s production target, acknowledging the support and cooperation from troops and security agencies in the region.
During his visit to Rivers State, General Musa also met with the state’s Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
The CDS assured the Governor of the military’s continued support and highlighted the ongoing efforts to tackle oil theft and secure vital infrastructure.
He commended the Governor for maintaining peace in the state and noted that the inauguration of the monitoring team would bring about a significant shift in combating oil theft.
Governor Fubara affirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the federal government’s efforts to boost oil production.
He also raised concerns about increasing sea piracy around the Bonny axis, mentioning plans to acquire maritime platforms to assist security agencies in addressing the issue.
The CDS’s visit reinforces the Armed Forces’ focus on ensuring national security and boosting Nigeria’s oil production through enhanced collaboration and strategic oversight.
