Security: IGP inaugurates SPU donated by Akwa Ibom gov’t

The Inspector-General of Police, Alkali Usman, on Wednesday inaugurated a Special Protection Unit Base 27, a Special Protection Unit Base of the Nigeria Police Force (SPU- Base), at Awa, Onna Local Government Area.

The project was solely conceived and financed by the Akwa Ibom State Government.

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In his remarks, the IGP commended Governor Emmanuel for the initiative in constructing an ultra-modern SPU, a project he described as a legacy that demonstrates the commitment of the governor to the security of the State.

The IGP further applauded the governor in his efforts in addressing critical infrastructural deficits affecting the operations of the Nigeria Police, adding that the positive effects of the project will soon be felt.

Usman, who announced the designation of the SPU as base 27, and donated one patrol vehicle for its operations, said by this project the Governor has taken the bull by the horn and supported the Federal Government in addressing infrastructural deficits affecting the operations of Nigeria Police.

“I want to thank Governor Emmanuel for conceptualizing this project. I assure you that we will sustain the project.

“To support the immediate takeoff of this facility, I have approved the following to be provided to this facility; that the base is designated as Special Protection Unit Base 27, Awa Iman, Onna, Akwa Ibom, the allocation and delivery of a brand new pick-up vehicle will be delivered, the immediate deployment of the commanding officer, 2nd in command and other key officers and operatives as well as the organization of a special training for all personnel to be in tune with the peculiar operational environment,” he said.

The facility, IGP Alkali said, will induce the administrative and operational efficiency of the SPU in Akwa Ibom State, in a manner that will advance the general security across the state and boost investors’ confidence by protecting the critical and economic industrial assets put in place for Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking at the event, Governor Udom Emmanuel who thanked the IGP for inaugurating the SPU and approving additional equipment for the smooth take-off of the base reiterated his commitment to partner with the Nigeria Police Force for the protection of lives and property in the State.

In furtherance of his demonstration towards strengthening the security architecture in the state, Governor Emmanuel also donated 15 more operational vehicles to support the police and assured of his resolve to fulfilling his promise of 100 vehicles to the Police.

“Today, I want to say a special thank you to the IGP for making a way, despite all other commitments to give us priority to be here to commission this fantastic facility; not just the best in the south-south, but in the country.

“I also want to reassure all the security agencies in the state of our cooperation, our partnership and our collaboration to achieve our primary goal and purpose, our civic and common responsibility to our people, to protect lives and property”, the Governor stated.