In a bid to strengthen community ties and foster goodwill, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has formally inaugurated a renovated Civic Center in Amaeke Item, located within the Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
The prestigious event was graced by the esteemed presence of General Lagbaja, who was represented by Major General Hassan Taiwo Dada, the General Officer Commanding the 82 Division. The commissioning took place on Friday, August 11, 2023.
The ceremony highlighted the Civic Center project as a significant contribution to the Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Special Intervention Projects, underscoring the Nigerian Army's dedication to enhancing local infrastructure and well-being. General Lagbaja emphasized that this initiative is just one of many such projects aimed at uplifting communities nationwide. He urged the residents to utilize the facility judiciously.
Major General Gold Chibuisi, the visionary behind the project and the Theater Commander of the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), expressed his gratitude to the COAS for extending this meaningful initiative to his ancestral home. He lauded the Nigerian Army's positive impact and assured the community of its continued dedication.
Air Vice Marshal Emmanuel Chukwu (Retd) appealed to the Special Guest of Honour to establish a military presence in Amaeke Item, where the West African Frontier Force once had a base before the civil war. He also proposed the establishment of a Command Secondary School to foster a sense of belonging within the military family.
Representing Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti's Special Adviser on Security, Navy Commander Uba MacDonald (Retd), conveyed appreciation for the laudable project. He acknowledged the enduring relationship between Amaeke Item and the Army, affirming the government's commitment to the well-being of its citizens.
Dr. Jeji Williams, representing the Taraba State government, emphasized the cordial and harmonious relationship between Amaeke Item and Taraba State, assuring the continuation of this bond.
The occasion witnessed the conferring of chieftaincy titles on distinguished personalities, including Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja as Dike Namba 1 of Amaeke Item (A Warrior in Another Man's Land), Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya as Dike Di Ohanma of Amaeke Item (A Warrior Loved by All), Lieutenant General Azubuike Ihejirika as Obatta Obie 1 of Amaeke Item (Bringer of Peace and Tranquility), and Air Vice Marshal Emmanuel Chukwu (Retd) as Ebube Dike 1 (Glory of a Warrior) of Amaeke Item.
The vibrant event celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Amaeke Item, with sons and daughters showcasing their traditions and customs. Festivities included the official commissioning of the renovated Civic Center, facility tours, and group photographs.
Among the dignitaries present were Major General NC Ogbu, Chief of Civil Military Cooperation; Brigadier General Nsikak Edet, Commander of the 14 Brigade; Mrs. Nafeesat Dada, Chairperson of the 82 Division Nigerian Army Officers' Wives Association (NAOWA); Mrs. Joy Chibuisi; distinguished officers from the 82 Division Nigerian Army (both serving and retired); NAOWA members; esteemed guests; friends; and well-wishers from the Amaeke Item community."
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