We’ll Do Our Best To Keep Kogi Safe,’ Army Commander Pledges
The Commander of the 12 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar-Sidi, has reiterated the commitment of the military to maintaining peace and security in Kogi State, assuring residents that the Army will continue to do its utmost to eliminate bandits and criminal elements terrorising the state.
Brig.-Gen. Umar-Sidi gave the assurance on Tuesday when he received members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kogi State Council, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Brigade Headquarters in Lokoja.
He commended the media for their role in nation-building, stressing the importance of collaboration between journalists and security agencies in combating insecurity.
The Commander urged journalists to focus on balanced and factual reporting, adding that sensational or negative portrayals of the country’s security situation could demoralize the troops risking their lives to defend the nation.
“It is not encouraging when some people describe Nigeria as a disgraced nation or a country of particular concern because of security challenges. Our soldiers are working day and night, making sacrifices to ensure peace and stability. They deserve commendation and public support,” Umar-Sidi said.
He called on Nigerians to provide useful information that could aid security operations, assuring that the Army remains committed to protecting the lives and property of citizens across Kogi State.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, NUJ Kogi State Council, expressed appreciation to the Army for its continued efforts in safeguarding the state and pledged the media’s readiness to promote constructive partnership and accurate reportage of military activities.
Kogi, which serves as a strategic link between the North and South, has in recent years witnessed incidents of kidnapping and banditry, particularly along major highways.
The Army, alongside other security agencies, has intensified operations to curb the menace and restore public confidence in the state’s safety.
