In continuation with his familiarization visits since assumption of command, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah has visited some critical stakeholders, including some military establishments in Rivers State. The visits which were conducted from 12 – 13 February 2025, were part of his broader framework and advocacy for a collective approach to security in the Niger Delta Region (NDR).

While at the Head Office of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the GOC stressed the importance of the partnership between the NDDC and the Nigerian Army (NA). He reemphasized that the partnership is about peace and development in the NDR. He also maintained that the two critical institutions are operating along different functional lines for a common purpose. The GOC appreciated the NDDC for the various intervention projects executed across NA formations and units under 6 Division. He expressed the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede appreciation to the NDDC for the projects. He reassured that the Division under his watch will continue to continue to provide security as well as create the enabling environment for key players in the NDR to function effectively.

Responding, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, NDDC, Chief Samuel Ogbuku stressed that the Commission has done a lot in sustaining the collaboration with security agencies, particularly the NA. He emphasized that security, peace and development are intertwined, stressing that without peace there won’t be development. He reassured that the NDDC will sustain the relationship with the NA and other security agencies in the region.

The GOC also visited the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), where he registered his presence. While at the Command, he intimated the Flag Officer Commanding, NAVTRAC, Rear Admiral Istifanus Albara of his assumption of command. He also expressed his willingness to collaborate and support NAVTRAC. While welcoming the GOC, the FOC reassured the willingness of his command to continue to collaborate and support 6 Division to succeed.

Relatedly, the GOC visited Naval Shipyard Limited (NSL), where he interacted with the Admiral Superintendent, Naval Shipyard Limited (ASNSL), Rear Admiral Etop Ebe. He reassured that the NA will patronize the shipyard in terms of gunboat procurement and maintenance. The ASNSL, Rear Admiral Ebe, while welcoming the GOC, stressed that he recognised the importance of 6 Division, particularly that its area of interest coincides with what the Nigerian Navy is doing in the region. He reassured of functional collaboration between the shipyard and 6 Division.

Major General Emekah also visited, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), where he interacted with he General Manager, SPDC, Mr Bob Boss, on areas of mutual interest, most especially in the fight against crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism in the region. The visit reassured of sustained collaboration in the fight against economic sabotage.

Meanwhile, the GOC visited 103 Battalion, NA at Harry’s Town in Degema, where he was briefed by the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Waheed Shittu on the activities of the unit. He also addressed soldiers and harped on the need for them to be disciplined and professional in the conduct of their duties. He reassured them that their welfare would be prioritised in line with the command philosophy of the COAS.