"Nigerian Army Commences Removal of Unexploded Bombs at Ikeja Cantonment, 21 Years After Devastating Blast"
In a significant development, the Nigerian Army is set to initiate the removal of unexploded ordnance from the Ikeja Cantonment, two decades after a tragic bomb blast claimed numerous lives.
During a visit to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the State House on Monday, October 9, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja, revealed the Army's upcoming operations in Lagos.
Lagbaja shared, "The Nigerian Army has organized a ceremony to eliminate unexploded ordnance at the site of the 2002 Bomb Explosion in Ikeja Cantonment. The goal is to ensure the area's safety and transfer the unexploded ordnance to a secure location in Ajilete, Ogun State."
Highlighting the importance of safety as the year draws to a close, he continued, "As the year-end festivities approach, we must provide safe and secure passage for travelers. We have launched three security exercises to prevent any breaches, which will kick off on Tuesday in Lagos."
Lagbaja expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the people and the state government to Army units and formations. He also praised the Lagos Government's infrastructure renewal efforts, emphasizing that improved infrastructure would enhance the military's rapid response to security crises.
Moreover, he noted that military personnel would greatly benefit from Lagos' Blue and Red Line rail projects, which would aid their daily commuting.
Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the Army's commitment, dedication, and patriotism in upholding the nation's sovereignty, stating, "The Army has continued to live up to their responsibilities provided by the constitution, and the sacrifices made by soldiers to preserve our country's territorial integrity and peace will not go unappreciated."
In a gesture of support, the Governor assured the Army of the state government's commitment to rebuilding a military primary school in Orile, which was demolished to make way for the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
Sanwo-Olu also sought cooperation from military personnel in restoring order along the Lagos-Badagry corridor, where the government is clearing illegal shanties along the expressway. He appealed for collaboration in the ongoing enforcement efforts across Lagos, including the ban on Okada (motorcycle taxi) operations, emphasizing that these actions were essential for maintaining security and public assets in the state.
The Governor underscored the importance of synergy among all security agencies in the shared responsibility of keeping Lagos safe for commercial activities.