Nigerian Army Strengthens Civil-Military Cooperation with New Recreation Center
Lieutenant General Widi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), emphasized the critical role of effective civil-military cooperation in enhancing Nigeria’s security and territorial integrity. This message comes at a pivotal time in the country’s development, where collaborative efforts are more essential than ever.
During the inauguration of the Ogume Recreation Park, a major leisure facility developed by the Nigerian Army in Ogume Community, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State, Shaibu underscored the project’s alignment with the government’s policy to foster community peace and cooperation.
While officiating the opening ceremony, the COAS reiterated the Army’s ongoing commitment to enhancing civil-military relations and community development nationwide. He highlighted infrastructure initiatives such as the Ogume recreation center as a key component of this commitment.
“This project represents a significant step forward in both community development and civil-military collaboration,” he stated. The recreation park was established under the Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiative and was inaugurated by Major General E.E. Emeka, the commander of the 6th Division of the Nigerian Army, on behalf of the COAS.
The COAS pointed out that this initiative illustrates the Army’s evolving role in national governance, extending beyond traditional combat operations to embrace social and infrastructure development aimed at building public trust and enhancing the well-being of local communities.
“This project showcases the Nigerian Army’s commitment to non-kinetic operations and community welfare, which are vital for cultivating public trust and fostering meaningful community interactions,” General Shaibu added. He stressed that the CIMIC efforts are part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties between military and civilian sectors, an approach he deems essential for achieving sustainable national security.
“Community cooperation is vital for fostering a secure environment conducive to socio-economic growth. We urge the community to safeguard this project and collaborate actively with security agencies,” he remarked. The COAS also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support of the Nigerian Army.
Additionally, he recognized Major General Ugochukwu G. Ogereka, the project’s executor, for his professionalism and dedication, encouraging the residents of Ogume to fully embrace the facility and provide valuable assistance to local security forces with reliable information.
General Ogereka, while addressing attendees, noted that the park aims to enhance unity and social cohesion within the community, consistent with the COAS’s philosophy of creating a professional, adaptable, and resilient military force. He explained that the recreation park symbolizes national unity and will serve as a venue for intergenerational interaction, featuring sports courts, a children’s play area, solar power, internet access, and a central monument representing the seven clans of Ogume.
In his remarks, Major General Ma Etsu Ndagi, the Director of Civil-Military Affairs, highlighted the importance of such initiatives in strengthening the bonds between the military and the populace. He stated that community support is crucial for the success of military operations.
Chief Festus Ochonogol, Managing Director of DESOPADEC and representative of the Delta State Governor, praised the Nigerian Army for aiding the government’s infrastructure development efforts. He urged local residents to take ownership of the park and ensure its upkeep.
Regional leaders expressed their gratitude towards the Nigerian Army for establishing such vital facilities that promote peace in the community. Dennis Otuya, Project Engineer and CEO of Fulbrix Consult Nigeria Limited, detailed the amenities of the Ogume Recreation Park, which covers an area of 10,250 square meters and includes a multifaceted playground, performance stage, and monuments representing the seven clans of Ogume.
The park also offers free Wi-Fi internet service for two years, which General Ogereka noted has already benefited local youth, especially students. The inauguration ceremony was well-attended, featuring military personnel, government officials, traditional leaders, and local residents who expressed their enthusiasm for the multi-purpose recreation center, which is anticipated to bring significant socio-cultural and economic transformation to the region.
