By Chris Chimezie
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Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), has commended the military for its efforts at keeping Nigeria united and as one indivisible entity.
The Governor gave the commendation at the closing ceremony of the 2 Division Inter-Brigade Combat Proficiency Competition 2018 of the Nigerian Army held at the Obstacle Crossing Ground, Owena Military Cantonment in Akure yesterday.
Akeredolu, while heaping praises on the military who had fought wars and other battles to keep the country as one, said the unity being enjoyed today could not have been possible.
“All of us in this country, we hold the existence of Nigeria to the Military. You are the one that has brought all of us together.
“We all look up to you, the Military, as the last hope of this nation in terms of security. You have done your best and fought many wars to ensure that Nigeria is united as one.
“We appreciate all your efforts and may the labour of your heroes past never be in vain”, he said.
Arakunrin Akeredolu who was the Special Guest of Honour, attributed the unity and understanding among the Military to their ability to speak one language, adding that it has enabled them to see themselves as brothers.
“I hope one day, Nigeria would think about the need to adopt one language. It builds the nation together and strengthens nationhood”, he stated.
He thanked the officers of the 32 Artillery, Akure, for their efforts at checkmating the menace of kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state.
Governor Akeredolu, however, assured of his administration’s continued partnership with the military through impactful interventions.
He commended the officers, especially the two female Lieutenants who were involved in the tough drills and obstacle exercise for their great efforts, which are expected of a soldier.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army in Ibadan, Major Gen. Fidelis Azinta noted that the exercise was a routine one which is usually held to show the strength of force of officers and men of the division against external attacks.
He added that the officers who participated in the exercise, Captains and Lieutenants, were team leaders who were trained to combat insurgency and other external attacks.
Azinta maintained that the exercise is equally to promote team-work centred on alertness and obedience to command call by soldiers under the Division.
The GOC added that the exercise was to create combat efficiency and readiness for men of the Division and a show of force and strength among the officers.
The participating Brigades include: 32 Artillery Brigade Akure, 42 engineering Brigade Ibadan, 52 Signal Brigade Ibadan, 4 Brigade, Benin, 2 Division Garrison, Ibadan and 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin.
The six participants which are under 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Ibadan, participated in: Clear Jump Balancing, Under and Over ,10/9 ft Wall, Mesh, 9/7 ft Ditch, Ramp, Hand Bridge, Tunnel, 6/5 ft Wall, Barb Wire, Tarzan Ropes, Horizontal and Vertical Ropes Crossing.
The point of attraction of the exercise was a female Lieutenant from 2 Division Garrison, Ibadan, who was the only female that survived the Horizontal and Vertical Ropes Crossing which appeared to be the most difficult aspect of the exercise.
Brigade Commander, 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure, Ondo State, Brig. Gen. James Ataguba and other top Military officers of the Nigerian Army graced the event.
The best overall formation is 2 Division Nigerian Army Garrison Ibadan Oyo State, 2nd Position goes to 4 Brigade Division, Benin Edo State, while 32 Artillery Brigade Akure, Ondo State came 3rd.
