The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Olufemi Oluyede, has charged troops of the Joint Task Force South South Operation Delta Safe (JTF SS OPDS) to perform their duties with utmost professionalism and integrity.
Gen Oluyede made the call during the commissioning of the newly built Ultra Modern Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO) Accommodation and remodelled Conference Hall at the JTF SS OPDS Headquarters in Igbogene, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
Speaking at the ceremony, the CDS admonished troops to avoid illegal activities or compromises while executing their duties to safeguard oil infrastructure, which he described as critical to Nigeria’s economic sustainability. He reiterated his commitment to enhancing the welfare and general well-being of Armed Forces personnel through improved welfare packages under consideration.
Commending the Commander of JTF SS OPDS, Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo, Gen Oluyede praised the execution of the projects, emphasizing their value to the operational efficiency and morale of the troops.
In his response, Rear Admiral Oladipo acknowledged the CDS for commissioning the projects and highlighted that they were aligned with the CDS Military Strategic Philosophy, which prioritizes troop welfare. The NCO accommodation features 24 apartments, each equipped with 24-hour solar power, water supply, bedding, and cooling systems, designed to ensure comfort for personnel. He reiterated his commitment to prioritizing the welfare of officers and men to sustain their focus on the OPDS mandate: protecting oil and gas infrastructure, deterring militancy, preventing sea robbery, and safeguarding lives and property in the Niger Delta.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by notable military officials, including Major General Emmanuel Emekah, General Officer Commanding 6 Division Nigerian Army; Air Vice Marshal JJ Ijugigal, representing the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command; Brigadier General Nurulhayat Mohammed, Commander 16 Brigade; and Principal Staff Officers from Defence Headquarters, among others.
