Traditional rulers, community leaders and residents of Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have commended President Bola Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for facilitating the establishment of a Nigerian Army battalion in Omu-Aran.

The stakeholders stated that the deployment would strengthen security across Kwara South and improve the protection of communities within the area. They spoke on Tuesday during a reception organised to welcome officers and soldiers of the new battalion, which is commanded by Lt.-Col. Kehinde Avoseh.

The Olomu of Omu-Aran, Oba AbdulRaheem Adeoti, pledged the community's full support for the troops and assured them of a peaceful and hospitable environment. “I want to assure you that our support, especially in terms of the welfare of the battalion, will be 100 per cent, by the grace of God. You will enjoy your stay in Omu-Aran,” Adeoti said.

The monarch also expressed appreciation to military authorities for retaining Omu-Aran as the location of the battalion, describing the development as an opportunity to promote security and progress in the community. The Chairman of Irepodun Local Government, Abdulazeez Yakub, similarly pledged the council's cooperation with the Nigerian Army.

“On behalf of the people of Irepodun Local Government, I assure you of our full cooperation and support as you carry out your duties,” Yakub said.

President of the Omu-Aran Development Association, Prince Niyi Adeyeye, noted that the military presence would help improve security in Omu-Aran and other communities across Kwara South. A retired military officer and community leader, Lasisi Abidoye, also commended President Tinubu and Governor AbdulRazaq for supporting the establishment of the battalion, promising maximum cooperation from residents.

Speaking at the event, Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brig. Gen. Nicholas Rume, thanked residents for their warm reception. He stated that the deployment was part of the Federal Government's plan to expand the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army across the country.