The Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Prince Maxwell Ogiri, has called for strategic collaboration with the Retired Army, Navy, and Air Force Officers Association to support the training and reorientation of local vigilante groups across the LGA.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Comrade Joshua Otene, the Chairman highlighted the critical need to harness the wealth of military experience, tactical discipline, and leadership skills possessed by retired officers to tackle security challenges facing the area.

The call came following a courtesy visit to the Chairman by the leadership of the association’s Otukpo Chapter, led by Major Samuel Enokela Ukwenya (Rtd). During the visit, Prince Ogiri commended the association’s longstanding contributions to peace and security in Otukpo and praised Major Ukwenya’s continued efforts in coordinating community-based security structures.

According to the statement, Prince Ogiri reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing grassroots security and expressed readiness to work closely with the association to build a more organized and effective vigilante system across Otukpo.

“The local government stands to benefit immensely from the experience of our retired officers, particularly in guiding and structuring our local security outfits,” the Chairman noted through his spokesperson.

He also applauded the association for its proactive approach to security and pledged to maintain an open channel of cooperation in safeguarding communities throughout the local government area.

Earlier in the meeting, Major Ukwenya (Rtd), who led the association’s delegation, expressed appreciation for the Chairman’s transformative leadership since taking office in October 2023. He urged Prince Ogiri to remain focused and resilient, assuring him of the group’s full support in advancing the local government’s development and security goals.

Also present during the visit was Major S. A. Adoga (Rtd), Secretary of the association’s Otukpo Chapter.