As part of the measures to enhance the security of coastal ways and creeks around the Niger Delta region of the country, the Nigerian Army has launched operation crocodile smile lll exercise.
Speaking during the official flag-off of the operation Friday at the 16 brigade step-up headquarters in Nembe local government area of Bayelsa State, the General Officer Commanding 6 division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Jamil Sarham, said that the operation is an annual training for officers and soldiers to sharpen their skills in operating in the riverine and creek environment of the region.
He said the operation is also aimed at dominating and identify land way flash points where criminals may be hiding.
Major General Sarham said: “The operation is conducted simultaneously in all the states within the division area of responsibility, which covers Bayelsa, Delta, Akwa Ibom and Rivers States; it is done in conjunction with sister services and various state governments.”
“Officers and soldiers have been sensitized to abide by all professional ethics with absolute respect for human rights and best global practices in the conduct of the operations, though sometimes communities get apprehensive on some military personnel, but military and Nigerian Army in particular is first and foremost for protection and security all Nigerians.”
“We will not tolerate any unit or formation yielding any ground for criminals or militants in whatever guise, we have the full backing of the Federal government and governments of any state you are operating to act under your roles of engagement to deny criminal elements any freedom of actions.”
The commander 16 brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kelvin Aleigbe, said the operation will serve as the confident building and up-temple engagement to dominate the water ways and land base flash points.
