14 BRIGADE COMMANDER HOST OPERATION OFFICER GEOMETRIC POWER COMPANY, NYSC STATE COORDINATOR
The State Coordinator National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Abia State Barrister (Mrs) Gladys Adama and her principal staff officers paid a courtesy visit to Headquarters 14 Brigade (Bde) at Ohafia on Wednesday, 26 March 2025 to seek continuous collaboration and enhanced synergy with the Bde. They were received on arrival by the Commander, Brigadier General Hassan Bello.
Barr Mrs Gladys said NYSC is a mandatory post-tertiary scheme set up by the Nigerian government during the military regime by the then Head of State General Yakubu Gowon. She further pointed that the NYSC is crucial for national development that fosters unity, promotes self reliance and encourages community engagement amongst young graduates through a structured program.
The State Coordinator therefore appreciated the Bde for contributions to the scheme especially during orientation camping exercises where soldiers not only train corps members but also ensure their safety while in camp. She also thanked the commander for allowing Corps members within Ohafia LGA access to medical care in the Barracks hospital whenever the need arises despite being capitated to General Hospital Ohafia.
The Commander in his response assured the State coordinator of his command’s willingness to continue to support NYSC as they positively shape the future leaders of the nation. Adding that the doors of his office will always be open for any form of collaboration and assistance they may require.
Brig Gen Bello reiterated that the contributions of corps members in the development of the Barracks is highly commendable. He therefore requested for the posting of additional corps members to the schools and 145 Medical Reception Station (MRS) that caters for the health needs of the Barracks and environs.
Similarly, the Commander 14 Brigade Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 3 Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA (OPUK) Brigadier General Hassan Bello also received the Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Geometric Power Company, Engineer Blessing Ogbe and his executive in his office at the Bde Headquarters.
Engr Ogbe in his remarks thanked the Commander for granting them audience and also used the opportunity to appreciate members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies for their sacrifices in ensuring peace and stability in Abia state and Nigeria at large. He disclosed that the activities of the company involves generation and distribution of power.
He therefore solicits for strengthened collaboration with the Bde emphasizing on key areas affecting their operations which include: vandalisation of key electrical installations and equipment, electricity theft/meter breach and also attacks on their personnel while on legitimate duties. He further noted that the company cannot operate without the efforts and support of security agencies.
Responding, Brigadier General Bello stated that he is glad when agencies and organizations visits the Bde because it shows the level of confidence in the activities and operations of the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces at large. He also pointed out that the security of the country is not only the responsibility of security agencies but of all citizens as we all have a role to play in achieving a secured and peaceful Nigeria.
The commander further stated that the relevance of the Geometric Power Company is very essential as the company generates and transmits power, considering that the Barracks have been without electricity for over five years. He also noted that he has made significant efforts to liaise with key stakeholders on modalities to restore power to the Barracks and Geometric Power Company as a key player in the power sector should consider the plight of the Barracks community.
SHAMSUDEEN UMAR
Acting Assistant Director
Army Public Relations
14 Brigade Nigerian Army
26 March 2025
