The Commander of the 2 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ken Chigbu, launched Exercise Still Waters III on Thursday in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. This exercise aims to address various security threats in the state during the yuletide season.
During the flag-off ceremony at the Step Up Headquarters in Ikot Afanag, Essien Udim, General Chigbu described Exercise Still Waters as an annual field training program that brings together all security agencies in the state to enhance their skills in internal security operations.
The exercise will run from now until January 5, 2024, and General Chigbu expressed his optimism that it will promote joint efforts to tackle emerging security threats in the state, particularly during the festive season.
General Chigbu emphasized that the 2 Brigade, in collaboration with other security agencies in the state, has been working closely with the State Government to combat the security challenges it faces. Both kinetic (military action) and non-kinetic (non-violent) approaches have been employed to effectively address these threats.
He stated, “It is with deep humility and appreciation that I welcome you all to the Step Up Headquarters and the flag-off ceremony for Exercise STILL WATERS III, hosted by the 2 Brigade Nigerian Army in Ikot Afanag, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.”
General Chigbu added, “This event could not have come at a better time than now when there are growing concerns about the several security challenges confronting our dear State and nation at large.”
He explained that Exercise Still Waters is an annual field training exercise that provides a forum for security agency personnel in Akwa Ibom State to enhance their skills in internal security operations, with a particular focus on tackling security threats during the yuletide season.
General Chigbu highlighted the ongoing changes within the 2 Brigade, under the leadership of Major General JH Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division Nigerian Army. These changes align with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force.
Senator Akon Eyankenyin, the representative of Governor Umo Eno, commended the 2 Brigade for collaborating with other security agencies in ensuring adequate security in the state, particularly in terms of intelligence sharing.
The governor also commended the 2 Brigade for establishing its base in Ikot Afanag, an area that has experienced volatility due to the activities of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) of the Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB). The presence of the brigade has helped restore peace and normalcy in the area, allowing many displaced persons to return to their communities.
