Nigeria at 60: Gov Emmanuel commissions 168 flats in Army barracks to celebrate Independence Day

By Grace Akpan in Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has commissioned 168 remodeled flats at the Wellington Bassey Army Barracks, 6 battalion, Ibagwa, Abak, as a part of activities by the State government to celebrate Nigeria’s 60th independence anniversary.

Speaking at the occasion, the Governor said that as a responsible federating unit, Akwa Ibom state Government will continue to support federal institutions to function properly. He said  “the pitiable situation of the barracks caught my attention when I came on inspection with the then Commander of 2 Brigade. What I saw was very disturbing and I decided that I will change the story of this barracks for good. Today we are witnesses to the new aura of this barracks as we commission the phase 2 of my interventions here in this barracks. I decided to add the water scheme to help the residents with their water needs and improve the living conditions of the residents. I have been told of the issues relating to power unavailability in the barracks and I’m determined to do something about it, by next year this time, we will be here again to commission the power infrastructure .”

In his speech, the Commander 2Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. FU Mijinyawa expressed the appreciation of the Chief of Army Staff and gratitude of the leadership and men of the brigade, on the qualitative  and prompt delivery of the projects. He thanked the Governor for his consistent care and concern for army personnel . 

The Commissioner for Housing, Otuekong Raphael Bassey, whose Ministry supervised  the remodeling and reconstruction of the barracks, assured that standards were strictly observed in the execution of the entire  reconstruction.

The second phase of the reconstruction comprised of 84 houses for soldiers of the rank of corporal and below, in addition to the 84 houses earlier commissioned, bringing the total number to 168. 

The wife of one of the beneficiaries, Mrs Isah appreciated the Governor for giving them a comfortable accommodation and good drinking water. She said before the Governor’s intervention, their houses were leaking and life was very difficult.