During the opening of a state-of-the-art officers’ gate and guards’ house, Lt-Col Muhammad Abdurrahaman, the Commandant of the Nigeria Army’s 174 Battalion, urged the people of Ikorodu to offer vital information to improve community security. The ceremony was presided over by Brig.-Gen. Adegoke Adetuyi, Commander of the 9th Brigade, Ikeja, Lagos, who also received an award for his inspection of the building work.

Lt-Col Abdurrahaman described the initiative as a “legacy project” that is crucial for overall barracks security and stressed the value of community collaboration in combating insecurity. He thanked everyone for their help during construction and promised that a special battalion unit would take care of things quickly.

Brig.-Gen. Adetuyi highlighted the significance of access control and security provided by the facilities, commending the commanding officer for adding value to existing infrastructure. He emphasized the ongoing construction approved by the Chief of Army Staff during a recent visit.

Paramount ruler of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, represented by Princess Oluwatoyin Aroyewun, urged residents to invest in the army and support commanding officers for optimal army-civilian relations. He credited the presence of the Nigerian Army barracks in Odogunyan for contributing to the reduction of crime in the area.

Locals expressed gratitude for the army’s contribution to maintaining the safety of people and property. Haniru Yahaya urged for improved civilian-military cooperation between all formations while applauding the army for a job well done. The commandant’s initiative for bringing advancements to the barracks was commended by retired colonel Reuben Nwankwo, who also urged residents to continue supporting him.

The incident served as a reminder of the need for community and military cooperation in addressing security issues. The need for community assistance underscores the shared duty in keeping a safe and secure environment, and the modern facilities represent a step towards improving security infrastructure.