GOVERNOR INUWA YAHAYA VISITS COAS, SEEKS NA SUPPORT

The Executive Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya has solicited for the support of the Nigerian Army (NA) in fighting drug trafficking and other sundry crimes in Gombe State.

The governor made the appeal when he paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Faruk Yahaya at Army Headquarters Abuja today 11 June 2021. He also used the medium to condole with the NA on the demise of the former COAS Late Lt Gen Ibrahim Attahiru and 10 other military officers who died in the unfortunate air mishap of 21 May 2021.

While congratulating the COAS on his appointment, the governor stated that the nation is passing through challenging times in view of the current security challenges. He further said Gombe State being at the center of the North Eastern states needs the constant cooperation and assistance of the NA and other security agencies to consolidate on the relative peace enjoyed in the state and the region.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya informed the COAS that the state has been a home for internally displaced persons who fled from neighbouring states. He further called for constant engagement with the NA in maintaining peace in the State.

The governor further stated that in the spirit of supporting the NA, Gombe State Government has donated its NYSC permanent orientation camp for use as rehabilitation center for repentant Boko Haram insurgents. He reassured the COAS that his administration would continue to support the NA in carrying out its constitutional mandate of maintaining peace and protecting the territorial integrity of the nation.

In his remarks, the COAS, Maj Gen Faruk Yahaya thanked the Governor for the kind gesture displayed by condoling with the NA over the demise of the late former COAS. He further stated that the NA and Gombe State have a long standing relationship. He thanked the governor for assisting the NA in developing the infrastructure at the 301 Artillery Regiment located in the state. He reassured the Governor that the NA will not relent in its efforts to maintain peace in Gombe State, considering its strategic location in the North East.

Highlights of the event were group photographs, exchange of souvenirs and signing of visitors register

MOHAMMED YERIMA
Brigadier General
Director Army Public Relations