Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja, yesterday, inaugurated a 70,000 litres solar-powered water project in Alesi, Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River.
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that the project is a Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation Scheme, initiated by the COAS and implemented by the Commander, Four Special Forces Command, Doma, Nasarawa State, Major-General Hilary Nzan.
NAN also reports that the strategic initiative is aimed at fostering improved relationship between the army and communities through the implementation of people-oriented projects.
NAN reports that the Nigerian Army had earlier provided solar-powered street lights in the community.
Represented by the General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major-General Hassan Dada, the COAS said the project was designed to complement the existing infrastructure provided by government and other stakeholders.
He said the water project would provide sustainable source of clean water for the people of Alesi and environs.
“This project will help to improve the people’s health, sanitation and overall quality of life,” he said.
Lagbaja said the army had implemented a number of people-oriented projects across the country to support the wellbeing of communities.
He said some of such projects include construction and rehabilitation of hospitals, schools and laboratories, roads, town halls and borehole facilities among others.
He pledged the commitment of the army to sustain initiatives capable of promoting the security of the nation and wellbeing of the people.
Earlier, Nzan said the army chose to implement a water project after a thorough and rigorous consultation with the community.
He urged members of the community to ensure good maintenance culture while using the project to enable it serve them better.
Speaking on behalf of Alesi Community, Dr Odigha Odigha, a Community Leader, described the project as a good omen for the community.
He commended the army for the initiative and said the water project would impact positively on the wellbeing of the people.
“This project is a huge relief to the community, it would help in the reduction of waterborne diseases such as cholera. It will also reduce the burden of long treks to the stream.
“We commend the Nigerian Army for its visionary intervention in the community, this has truly enhanced the relationship between the people of the community and the force,” he said.
NAN reports that the inauguration ceremony was greeted with traditional dances and the conferment of the traditional title: “The Leader of People ” on the COAS. (NAN)
