Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has charged the new General Officer Commanding 82 Division to intensify efforts to end the sit-at-home orders often declared by non-state actors in the South-East region on Mondays.

Nwifuru also advised security agencies to introduce a reward system that would boost the morale of officers and personnel in the agencies.

In a statement made available to journalists by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr Monday Uzor, at the weekend, Nwifuru made the call when the new General Officer Commanding 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major-General Oluyemi Olatoye, paid him a courtesy call at his office in Government House Centenary City, Abakaliki.

“I am very much sure you are conversant with the South-East geopolitical environment.

“God has been with us, together with the good military officers deployed to our state. I want to assure you of our continued support, and I am confident in the calibre of men serving here in this state. We have been showing good support for the dedicated officers by giving cash and even car gifts to some of them,” Governor Nwifuru said.

Speaking earlier, Major-General Olatoye commended Governor Nwifuru for his support to the military and assured him that he would collaborate with the state to maintain law and order.

“I assumed command as the General Officer Commanding 82 Division on 27 January 2025. The purpose of the visit is to enhance my knowledge of the operating environment and the sectors, their challenges, and the future of the command. It will also enhance inter-agency and inter-service collaboration.

“I want to thank you for ensuring that all the agencies are well marshalled for better outcomes. I was informed of the cash rewards given to some of our men who performed excellently.

“I appreciate the honour and respect you have for the military,” Olatoye said.