By Deborah Nnamdi, Port Harcourt
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, has promised cooperation with the Department of State Services (DSS) to address security challenges in the Niger Delta Region.
He made this promise when the new Director of the Rivers State Command of the DSS, Mr. Benedict Akinwumi, paid him a courtesy visit at the 6 Division Headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Friday.
Maj. Gen. Abdussalam revealed that collaboration with the DSS had led to several successful operations, noting that continuing the pact would be crucial in tackling security challenges in the region.
He highlighted the division’s intensified efforts against illegal oil bunkering, crude oil theft, and other crimes, which have put significant pressure on criminal elements.
The GOC stated that flashpoints have been identified, promising to deploy appropriate responses to address them by working together with other security agencies to create a safer environment for the region’s communities and stakeholders.
He expressed optimism that the new SDS, given his pedigree in previous appointments, would bring valuable experience on board.
Earlier, Akinwumi said his visit to the Division was to seek guidance and collaboration, remarking that the DSS cannot do it alone because of the complex nature of the operating environment.
He enthused that collaborative efforts would go a long way in making the DSS operate successfully in the state, stating that he enjoyed similar unity with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies during his stint in Bayelsa State.
The DSS Chief called for support, reassuring that flashpoints of criminal activities have been identified and efforts would be streamlined to handle the situation accordingly.
