Major General Folusho Oyinlola, General Officer Commanding, 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, recently undertook a visit to key security agencies including the Nigeria Immigration Service, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and the Federal Road Safety Corps, as a concerted effort to strengthen security measures in Plateau State.
Major General Oyinlola’s outreach seeks to facilitate interagency collaboration, addressing the urgent need to overcome existing rivalries and establish a unified front against insecurity and criminality in the region.
During his visit to the NIS, the GOC underscored the crucial role of immigration services in the fight against insecurity, stating, “No agency or organization can defeat insecurity and criminality alone. We require a whole collaboration amongst the security agencies to address the myriads of security challenges in the state.”
This sentiment resonates as Plateau State grapples with various security issues, including child trafficking and drug-related crimes.
Linda Fom, the State Comptroller of Immigration, welcomed Oyinlola’s visit and reiterated her agency’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army’s mission.
Fom particularly raised concerns about underage trafficking, noting, “We have arrested several criminals trafficking children to unknown destinations. We seek the support of the GOC to address this pressing issue.”
At the NDLEA Headquarters in Jos, Major General Oyinlola further reiterated the need to abolish inter-agency rivalry. He stated, “A safe and secure Plateau State is the glory of us all. The vital role this organization plays as the leading force in the fight against drugs abuse cannot be overemphasized.”
Oyinlola highlighted the undeniable connection between illicit drugs and criminal activities, asserting that “many criminals, including terrorists and bandits, often rely on these substances to carry out their heinous acts.”
The State Commander of NDLEA, Anthony Gotar, expressed gratitude for the GOC’s visit and pledged to enhance cooperation with the Nigerian Army. He suggested a specialized training program for Army personnel on identifying drug concealment methods in vehicles.
“Our agency is committed to working alongside the Nigerian Army to rid the state of drug kingpins,” Gotar affirmed.
While visiting the Federal Road Safety Corps, Sector Commander Maxwell Lede praised the existing collaboration with the Nigerian Army, stating, “The Army has assumed a leadership position in the security architecture, and we at FRSC always emulate their efforts.”
Lede also extended prayers for the successful tenure of Major General Oyinlola, highlighting the significance of continued joint efforts to ensure public safety.
The visits by Major General Oyinlola to these agencies reflect a proactive approach to security in Plateau State. The call for synergy indicates recognition of the complexities of modern security challenges, where a fragmented approach could hinder effective responses.
The willingness of agencies like the NIS, NDLEA, and FRSC to engage with the Army signifies a potential shift toward a more integrated security strategy.
Major General Folusho Oyinlola’s courtesy visits to key security agencies within Plateau State serve as a significant step towards fostering collaboration and eliminating inter-agency rivalries. As he emphasizes the importance of united efforts against insecurity, the state stands at a critical juncture.
By building strong partnerships among various security agencies, Plateau State may pave the way for a more secure environment, ultimately benefitting its citizens and enhancing the overall safety of the region.
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