Hope Uzodimma…
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State emphasized the critical role of collaboration between government bodies and security agencies, particularly commending the Nigerian Army for its contributions to national unity and security.
Uzodimma shared these remarks on Thursday while welcoming Course 33 participants from the National Defence College, who were on a five-day study tour in Imo State, at the Government House in Owerri.
Represented by Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality, and Culture, Barr. Jerry Egemba, the Governor reiterated the significance of government-security collaboration and expressed gratitude to the College for selecting Imo State for this year’s study.
He encouraged the Course 33 participants to leverage their insights from the Imo tour for their professional growth and for the nation’s benefit.
“I recognize your strategic role in both unifying Nigeria and strengthening its defense framework. Imo State has benefited not only from your presence here but also from the peace and security we enjoy,” Uzodimma stated.
The team leader for the College’s study tour, Brigadier General Kabiru Sidi, explained that the objective was to study the socio-political dynamics within various Nigerian states. For the 2024 Course 33, the College selected Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Plateau, Imo, and Sokoto States.
The 2024 Course’s theme, “Strengthening Institutions for National Security and Development in Nigeria,” aims to hone participants’ analytical skills, transforming them into assets for their respective nations post-training.
The National Defence College, Nigeria’s premier military institution since 1992, aims to prepare senior officers for strategic-level roles, considering the socio-economic and political impact on national security and development.
During the tour, Egemba presented on “The Geography, History, and Culture of Imo State,” highlighting Uzodimma’s high regard for security institutions, a key reason for Imo State’s selection for the study tour.
Another presenter, Brigadier General Usman Lawal, Commander of the 34 Field Artillery Brigade, addressed the challenges affecting institutional strengthening in security, such as limited manpower, inadequate funding, and bureaucratic constraints.
The Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, Hon. Modestus Osakwe, proposed measures including establishing a crime forecasting center, creating a South-East Security Agency, and adopting advanced technologies to enhance security.
Dr. Chimezie Amadi, Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, presented on “Citizen Participation and Engagement in Strengthening Institutions,” highlighting people-centered policies introduced by Uzodimma to rebuild public trust.
Sidi commended Imo State’s hospitality and thanked Uzodimma for fostering a conducive environment for the College’s initiatives. Resource persons received plaques and books as mementos for their participation.
The findings from the 31 senior officers, drawn from military, police, paramilitary, and civil service sectors across Nigeria and abroad, will be evaluated for potential implementation to improve security and development in the region.
SOURCE: SOUTH EAST DAILY