By Charles Nwoke
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has called on Nigeria’s military and security forces to introduce a structured reward system aimed at motivating personnel engaged in combating insurgency and other security threats across the country.
Governor Nwifuru made the appeal on Monday in Abakaliki during a courtesy visit by students and facilitators of Senior Course 47 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, led by Commodore Abdulhakeem Olushina Ojebode.
He said that providing incentives and official recognition for officers who excel in peace and security operations would significantly enhance morale and dedication among troops. According to him, this approach would lead to better outcomes in the ongoing fight against insurgents and other criminal elements.
“A reward system for gallant security personnel will further strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture. It will increase commitment and assure our officers that their sacrifices are valued,” Nwifuru said. “If someone is sent to confront criminals with sophisticated weapons, they deserve recognition and support, especially if the mission endangers their lives.”
He criticized a system where senior officers often receive most of the accolades, leaving frontline personnel unacknowledged. “Rewarding systems work everywhere. We must integrate one into our security framework,” he added.
Governor Nwifuru also emphasized the importance of Indigenous policing structures, especially for managing security at the grassroots. He highlighted Ebonyi’s track record in maintaining peace and security and noted that his administration employs local strategies and kinetic measures to address security challenges.
He commended the efforts of the Nigerian military and other security agencies in tackling insecurity across the country. However, he cautioned separatist groups against violent methods of agitation, urging dialogue and lawful channels instead.
In his remarks, Commodore Ojebode said the delegation was in Ebonyi for an environmental study tour as part of their course requirements. He extended the compliments of the Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Air Vice Marshal Hassan Idris Alhaji, and praised Ebonyi for its achievements in delivering democratic dividends.
Speaking on the theme of their tour, “Harnessing Grassroots Intelligence for Internal Security,” Ojebode said the group was impressed by the proactive security measures taken by the state government.
He also thanked the Governor for the warm hospitality extended to the delegation. Among the visiting team were international students from the Gambia, Ghana, Botswana, and Togo, as well as Ebonyi-born Lieutenant Commander C.N. Nwuzor. The team will also visit eight other states as part of their national study tour.
