The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP), Major General Maxwell Dangana, has reasserted the Division’s commitment to supporting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in combating financial crimes, cybercrime and other security challenges in Plateau State.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olumide Victor Olukoya Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 3 Division Nigerian Army said the GOC gave the assurance when the Acting Zonal Director, Abuja Zonal Directorate of the EFCC, ACE I Michael Wetkas, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to Headquarters 3 Division, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos.
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Major General Dangana emphasised the need for sustained inter-agency collaboration, noting that the Nigerian Army and the EFCC undertake operations that often require close coordination, particularly during raids, searches and other security-related activities. He stressed that effective cooperation among security and law-enforcement agencies remains critical to ensuring the success, safety and effectiveness of joint operations. The GOC therefore assured the delegation that the Division would continue to provide the necessary support and security cover to the Commission whenever required, while fostering stronger institutional partnership to address the multifaceted security challenges confronting the state.
Speaking further, the GOC raised concerns over the activities of illegal miners and their reported nexus with security challenges in some mining communities. He called for enhanced coordination among relevant government agencies, stressing the need for proper documentation of mining activities and effective monitoring of mining operators to ensure strict compliance with established regulations. Major General Dangana also requested the Acting Zonal Director to facilitate a one-day sensitisation programme for officers and soldiers of the Division on investment scams, cybercrime and other forms of financial fraud. According to him, such an initiative would enhance personnel awareness of emerging financial crimes, equip them with the knowledge required to identify potential risks and help safeguard them against fraudulent investment schemes.
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Earlier, the Acting Zonal Director, ACE I Michael Wetkas expressed appreciation to the GOC for receiving the delegation and granting them the opportunity to visit the Division. He explained that the visit was aimed at familiarising the EFCC with the leadership and operations of 3 Division, strengthening the existing relationship between both institutions and seeking enhanced support and collaboration in the fight against financial crimes and other criminal activities. The Acting Zonal Director further drew attention to the growing threat of cybercrime, noting that a significant number of members of the public remain inadequately informed about its implications and broader consequences for the economy and national security. He stated that Nigeria reportedly loses over five hundred million US dollars annually to cybercrime, stressing the need for sustained public sensitisation, preventive measures and stronger collaboration among relevant security and law-enforcement agencies.
The engagement ended with the exchange of souvenirs and group photographs to commemorate the visit and further strengthen the relationship between the two institutions.
