By Attah Ede
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has warned officers and soldiers serving in and around the Niger Delta region of the country to desist from engaging in illegal activities capable of denting the image of the Nigeria military.
The Army Chief said that their welfare would be prioritised in the coming year.
General Oluyede further stressed the need for a sustained increase in oil production to strengthen Nigeria’s economy.
The COAS noted that the nation’s economic stability is consequentially connected to a steady rise in oil production, which would generate more revenue and help stabilise the Naira against the Dollar.
He stated this during his maiden visit to the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
The COAS enjoined the troops to continue their efforts in fighting illegal refining, oil bunkering, and other criminal activities in the Niger Delta.
According to him, the military’s efforts are essential for boosting the country’s oil output.
“The only way to improve the economy is to ensure that oil production rises without fail,” Oluyede stated.
“If oil production is not ramped up, the value of the Naira would continue to decline, leading to higher prices for goods and services, which would hurt Nigerians.
“There is no other way for the government to earn money except from oil,” he said. “If oil production does not rise, the dollar will keep rising, and that means everything will become more expensive.”
The Network gathered that during the visit, Oluyede participated in the decoration of 11 senior officers with higher ranks and reaffirmed his commitment to improving the welfare of the troops.
“I have discussed the challenges faced by the Army with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly regarding accommodation and equipment.
“In the next month, I expect to see significant improvements here. I have come to give you directives, and those directives must be followed,” he said. “If you do your part, I will do mine. We must work together to make Nigeria better.”
“Therefore, my administration will focus on improving the living conditions of the troops, including better housing and allowances.
“There will be significant transformation in the coming months to improve the troops’ welfare, provided they work diligently to increase oil production.
“Oil is the mainstay of our economy, and if we are not making money from oil, where will the government get the money to take care of your needs?” he asked. “We must all do our part to ensure that Nigeria’s oil production rises and that the government has the resources to support you.
“Go back and tell your colleagues—our job here is to make things better, and that starts with increasing oil production,” Oluyede
He also appealed to the troops to take their duties seriously and contribute to the nation’s progress, urging them to report any illegal activities they encounter.
