In continuation with the CIMIC drive of the Nigerian Army, bolstered by the Vision and Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya CFR, the Nigerian Army on 12 May 2023, commissioned a remodelled Nursery/Primary School, renovated Skill Acquisition Centre and Primary Healthcare Centre at Buguma City in Asari -Toru LGA of Rivers State.*
In his remarks at the official commissioning and hand over ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), who was represented by the General Officer Commanding 6 Division Nigerian Army, Maj Gen JH Abdussalam emphasised that the gesture was part of the CIMIC Special Intervention Projects being executed by the Nigerian Army across the country. He noted that the Nigerian Army in paying close attention to the non-kinetic aspect of Nigerian Army operations, had over the years taken deliberate steps towards ensuring that it gives back to the society the cooperations it enjoys from the civil populace. He highlighted that it is in pursuance of this that the Nigerian Army had chosen to observe some Corporate Social Responsibilities. He noted that the Nigerian Army had enjoyed a high level of cooperation and goodwill from the good people of Buguma, thereby necessitating the rehabilitation of the projects being commissioned.
The COAS stated that the need to have a good cordial relationship with the civil populace and indeed host communities where NA conducts military operations cannot be overemphasized. He further stressed that the crave for cordial relationships necessitated the remodeling and renovation of the Nursery/Primary School, Skill Acquisition Centre and the Primary Healthcare Centre at Buguma City which is tailored towards bridging the communication gap between the civil populace and the Nigerian Army.
Also, speaking at the event, the Project Executor, an illustrious son of Buguma Ancient City, Maj Gen TT Numbere noted that the projects were in a dilapidated state before the COAS’ timely intervention. He stated that the COAS’ intervention had brought in a reverberated hope and overwhelming joy to the entire community. He expressed appreciation to the COAS for his large heart and zeal in fostering the execution of several Quick Impact Projects across the country and significantly for honouring him with the projects in Buguma City.
Important dignitaries that graced the occasion included:
Traditional Rulers, the Executive Chairman of Asari -Toru LGA, Hon George, Old Boys Association of Stella Marris College, Rivers State and staff officers from Headquarters 6 Division Nigerian Army.
Highlights of the events included Presentation of Kola by the traditional rulers to the Chief of Army Staff, special rendition by students of ASALGA Nursery/Primary School Buguma, cutting of the commissioning tape, presentation of souvenirs and group photograph.
(C) ControlTV 2023.
