The governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has given the sum of N39 million to 39 wounded soldiers of the ‘Operation Udoka’ who were injured while fighting insecurity. The Operation Udoka is a security establishment of the army Chief of staff to curb criminality and banditry in the south East.
The governor made this announcement during an event hosted by Commander, Joint Taskforce of South-East ‘Operation Udoka’ and Commander of 82 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, to celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir.
The event which held at the 302 Artillery Regiment, Onitsha Military Cantonment on Saturday, had many other dignitaries in attendance including the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-General Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Major General Adewale Adekeye.
In his statement, Soludo lauded the operatives for their commitment in protecting the nation’s integrity noting that the Operation Udoka has been keeping Anambra and entire south East sane.
He said; “Today, we are here for a special Sallah lunch with the officers and men of the Nigerian Army 302 Artillery Regiment Onitsha Barracks.
“I want to express my deepest appreciation for their unwavering dedication in protecting our nation’s territorial integrity. The success of ‘Operation Udoka’ in keeping Anambra State and the South-East region safe is truly commendable.
“I want to specifically appreciate the G.O.C here. We are confident that with our own G. O. C here, he is making fundamental differences day by day. I got a report in Ebonasea in Ihiala, Mbosi, Isseke, and Lilu that criminals are feeling the heat because of the gallant effort of our soldiers.
“The criminals are on the run. The other line of battle is defined and I want to pray that in no distant time, all those who are loitering in other criminal camps, that their days are numbered and we want to believe, indeed their days are numbered. Thanks to our gallant officers who are struggling everyday to make us safe.
“We assured the wounded soliders that they would be treated in the state-owned health care centres, and each of the 39 of them would get ₦1Million each for their effort in tackling criminalities in the region. Thank you for your service, we will continue to work together for the peace of our land. May Anambra continue to win!, he added.
Earlier in his welcome address, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, described the event as a gathering of reflection, show of togetherness and dedication to service. He also encouraged the operatives to remain steadfast and dogged in their work as they are not unnoticed.
“The efforts of the officers at the theater of operations continue to speak volume not too noisy, but results. The 82 Division Nigerian Army and Joint Taskforce South East ‘Operation Udoka’ maintained posture and act swiftly and decisively when it matters most in the threater operation,” he said.
In his remark, Major General Adewele Adekeye, who represented the army Chief of staff said the event was significant to encourage the soldiers. He further stated that the COAS initiated the soldiers in his wisdom. He further praised them for always putting the citizens first and themselves in the face of danger. He specifically praised the troops for the recent seizure of a truck containing more than 6,600 arms and ammunition.
In Olatoye’s statement, the COAS said; “Let me take this opportunity to express my deepest appreciation to the outstanding effort of the troops of this operation. Your bravery, your resilience, your dedication to duty are not done unnoticed. I must appreciate and commend your resilience that you have recorded in the operation which is a testament. So, I appreciate the efforts you put in to making sure that this region is secured.”
