By Austin Osayande, PhD
In a remarkable ceremony held on October 4, 2023, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, and Land Component Commander of the Joint Task Force, South South, Operation DELTA SAFE, officially commissioned multiple infrastructure projects and unveiled the new name of the camp located at 146 Battalion in Bonny Island, Rivers State.
According to Acting Deputy Director 6 Division Army Public Relations, Major Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the event, which was attended by a diverse audience, including representatives of King Edward Dappa Pepple of Bonny Kingdom, Chief (Ambassador) Lieutenant Colonel Dagogo Claude Wilcox, Chairman of the Bonny Council of Chiefs, heads of security agencies, captains of industries, and the local community, witnessed the transformation of the military facility.
During his address, Major General Abdussalam reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army (NA) to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians.
The GOC emphasized the importance of security and commended Lieutenant Colonel Habeeb Mbe, the Commanding Officer of 146 Battalion, for aligning with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.
Major General Abdussalam praised Lieutenant Colonel Mbe’s initiative in spearheading projects that have created an enhanced environment for the troops to carry out their duties effectively and efficiently.
He emphasized that these projects would benefit both the current officers and those who would serve in the unit in the future.
The highlight of the ceremony was the renaming of the camp to “Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya Camp,” a tribute to the immediate past Chief of Army Staff for his invaluable contributions to the Nigerian Army and the nation.
Major General Abdussalam assured the community in Bonny that the Nigerian Army remains dedicated to the security and safety of Nigeria and its citizens.
In his welcome address, Lieutenant Colonel Habeeb Mbe expressed gratitude for the strategic guidance provided by the GOC, which led to the successful execution of multiple projects.
He underscored the battalion’s commitment to upholding the COAS Command Philosophy, which seeks to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities.
The event witnessed the inauguration of several projects, including the Commanding Officer’s Official residence, officers’ transit accommodation block, remodelled officers’ mess, and twin helipads within the camp. These additions complemented previously commissioned projects such as the perimeter fence, remodeled battalion entrance gate, quarter guard, 1.2-kilometer ring road, car park, and a mosque, all contributing to the overall improvement of the camp’s infrastructure.
The ceremony was not only marked by the commissioning of projects but also featured cultural dance performances by Abara and Finima cultural groups, souvenir presentations, and group photographs, making it a memorable and momentous occasion.
Major General Abdussalam’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities and infrastructure of the Nigerian Army, as well as his recognition of the contributions of his predecessor, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, stands as a testament to the Army’s dedication to serving Nigeria and its people.
