In a significant demonstration of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to community development and national cohesion, a newly constructed modern town hall was commissioned on 1 June 2026 in Ikot Udoabia Community, Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, under the Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Project.
A statement signed by Major Yemi Sokoya assistant director army public relations said the project was facilitated and executed by Major General Wisdom Benjamin Etuk, the Chief of Defence Logistics, as part of the Chief of Army Staff’s Special Intervention CIMIC initiative.
The project represents a strategic effort to strengthen the bond between the military and the civilian populace while contributing meaningfully to grassroots development.
In his welcome address, Major General Wisdom Benjamin Etuk expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff for providing the platform through which impactful, community-oriented projects are executed across the country. He described the modern town hall as a symbol of unity, progress, and the collective aspirations of the people of Ikot Udoabia. He noted that the facility was conceived as a gift to his home community in recognition of the support, values, and upbringing he received from the people. He urged community members to utilize and maintain the facility responsibly, emphasizing that sustainable development thrives when communities take ownership of public infrastructure.
Representing the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Musa Estu Ndagi, was Major General Victor Beryo, who commended the community for its cooperation and support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of Civil-Military Cooperation as a critical pillar for fostering trust, mutual understanding, and national development. He stated that projects such as the modern town hall reflect the Nigerian Army’s dedication to improving the welfare of citizens beyond its constitutional responsibility of defending the nation. He further applauded Major General Etuk for his exemplary leadership, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to community advancement.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, ably represented by the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, lauded the initiative as a practical demonstration of the Nigerian Army’s people-centred approach to national security and development. He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to enhancing civil-military relations through impactful projects that address critical community needs. The representative emphasized that the commissioning of the town hall aligns with the vision of the Chief of Army Staff to build a professionally responsive Army that remains connected to the aspirations and welfare of the Nigerian people.
Speaking on behalf of the community, traditional rulers, elders, and stakeholders expressed deep appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff and Major General Wisdom Benjamin Etuk for bringing the laudable project to Ikot Udoabia. They described the town hall as a transformative facility that will serve as a venue for community meetings, cultural activities, youth engagements, and socio-economic development initiatives.
The commissioning ceremony attracted military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, women’s associations, and residents from across Etinan Local Government Area.
