Banner Online News

By Staff Reporter

Delta State – Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has stated that the establishment of an Air Defence Regiment under the Nigerian Army’s 83 Division in the state will significantly strengthen security, safeguard critical national assets, and accelerate development.

Governor Oborevwori made this known on Thursday during an inspection of facilities and ongoing works for the establishment of the Air Defence unit in the state.

The governor, accompanied by the Chief of Standards and Evaluation, Nigerian Army, Major General Thompson Ugiagbe, and Commander, 63 Brigade, Brigadier General Ibrahim Buhari, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the military and other security agencies.

He noted that the newly created 83 Division, which covers Delta, Edo, and Bayelsa states, would enhance the Nigerian Army’s capacity to respond to security threats across the region. According to him, the division includes several component units, including the Air Defence unit, which is strategically necessary due to Delta’s location and proximity to the airport.

“We need to support the security agencies because without security, there cannot be development,” Oborevwori said, disclosing that the state has provided land for a temporary facility while arrangements for a permanent site are underway.

The governor announced that the first batch of between 300 and 400 military personnel is expected to arrive in the state within the next few weeks.

Oborevwori emphasized that the improved security architecture in Delta has led to a reduction in armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. He added that the new military formation would help protect oil and gas infrastructure and other critical national assets.

“The most important benefit is to secure national assets and the people. That is the truth. If you don’t have all these security formations here, you know how it will be,” he stated.

The governor commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for maintaining peace and protecting lives and property in the state. He noted that the partnership has boosted the confidence of residents, investors, and businesses in Delta.

Reflecting on his recent visit to the Trans-Forcados pipeline area, Oborevwori said residents expressed happiness with the improved security situation. He directed the Commissioners for Housing and Lands to commence assessment and scoping of the temporary site, including structures requiring attention.

“Security remains a major pillar of this administration’s development agenda. No meaningful economic or infrastructural development can be sustained without peace and stability,” he said.

He urged the military and other security agencies to sustain their cooperation with the state government in the collective interest of Deltans and the nation.