The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa has solicited stronger and closer ties with the ministries of Petroleum and Justice to enhance the operational effectiveness and proficiency of the military in the ongoing fight against oil theft, terrorism and other criminal activities in the country.
The Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, who revealed to newsmen in a statement said, that the CDS whilst in his consultation with the critical stakeholders in the country, sought enhanced collaboration with the ministries to effectively function.
He said the CDS made the plea when he paid a courtesy call on the Ministers of Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri and Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi SAN respectively.
In his separate remarks during the visit, General Musa pledged continuous partnership to address the issues of oil theft, pipeline vandalisation, illegal refineries and the protection of human rights to the troops especially during operations. He also lauded the efforts by the Ministry of Justice, for the significant achievements recorded.
He added that “our national assets must be well protected, if that is done, the oil production will rise and the economy will improve. “
He assured that the Defence Headquarters ( DHQ) will continue to provide maximum security to oil facilities in the country. He called for more assistance from the ministry in areas of protection of the human rights of troops while performing their duties.
In their separate remarks, the Ministers of Petroleum and Justice thanked the CDS for the visit and pledged more collaboration with the DHQ to enhance economic activities in the country. They pledged to give the DHQ all necessary support to protect all critical oil facilities to improve oil production and legal backing to enhance their operational capabilities.