By Victor Akaa
In a strategic move to boost oil production and national security, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, inaugurated the Defence Headquarters Joint Monitoring Team in Rivers State on Tuesday. The ceremony took place at the 6 Division, Port Harcourt Barracks, Rivers State.
According to a statement by the Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the CDS reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s (AFN) unwavering commitment to serving the nation.
This initiative aims to optimize military and security agencies’ operations in the oil-producing South-South region, ensuring seamless coordination and enhanced performance.
During his remarks, General Musa emphasized the monitoring team’s crucial role in assessing military effectiveness and reporting to commanders for strategic enhancement.
He highlighted the successful collaborative efforts between the AFN and other security agencies, which have significantly increased daily oil production in the region.
The CDS urged the team to foster a collective effort, coordinating with the Joint Task Force (JTF), South-South Operation DELTA SAFE, and other stakeholders to achieve the President’s mandate of increasing oil production to 2.2 million barrels per day.
He reminded officers of their vital responsibility to secure critical national infrastructure and collaborate with oil companies to maximize production.
General Musa expressed confidence in the team’s ability, commending their commitment and loyalty to constitutional authority.
He assured the nation of the military’s dedication to upholding their responsibility, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring national security and economic growth.
During a courtesy visit to Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara, the CDS reassured him of continuous support, reiterating the military’s commitment to professionalism and constitutional duties.
Governor Fubara appreciated the military’s efforts in curbing pipeline vandalism and pledged support for the federal government’s initiatives to increase oil production, highlighting emerging security challenges and efforts to address them.
