The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), North East Nigeria, has honoured the 23 Brigade of the Nigerian Army with a Certificate of Honour for its exemplary professionalism and commitment to sustaining peace.
A statement signed by Captain OO Abidoye, Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations ,Sector 4 Operation HADIN KAI/ 23 Brigade issued to newsmen
It said the Regional Coordinator of the IHRC, North East Nigeria, Mr Mustapha Tukur, presented the award to the Commander of the 23 Brigade, Brigadier General Amechi Agwu, at the Brigade Headquarters.
Mr Tukur said the recognition followed the Commission’s independent field assessment of the Brigade’s operations in Adamawa State.
He acknowledged that the IHRC and some partner organisations had, in the past, relied largely on reports from local communities, particularly in areas affected by communal conflicts and insurgency.
According to him, direct field observations by IHRC personnel provided a different perspective on the conduct of troops, leading to the decision to recognise the Brigade’s leadership.
He commended the brigade for its efforts in restoring normalcy to Lamurde and other affected communities in Adamawa.
Mr Tukur also called for sustained collaboration between the IHRC and the 23 Brigade to enhance public awareness of the dangers posed by explosive ordnance in conflict areas.
Responding, Brigadier General Agwu thanked the Commission for what he described as its objective and unbiased assessment of the Brigade’s operations.
The Brigade Commander pledged that the troops would continue to uphold the ethical standards and professionalism of the Nigerian Army.
He also assured the Commission of the continued cooperation of Sector 4 Operation HADIN KAI/ 23 Brigade in promoting peace and security within its Area of Responsibility.
