Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has urged security and emergency response agencies to deepen inter-agency collaboration, intelligence sharing and rapid response to effectively tackle emerging security threats.
He spoke yesterday in Asaba at the closing of the Rapid Response 3 exercise, organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), through the Presidential Communication Command and Control Centre (PC4).
The governor, represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, described Delta’s selection as the host of the exercise as a milestone.
He said it was the first time the national assignment was being held at the sub-national level outside the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
He said the exercise underscored the need for stronger coordination among security agencies, traditional institutions, communities and citizens in confronting the country’s complex and evolving security challenges.
Oborevwori said the exercise provided security and emergency response institutions with an opportunity to test their readiness, strengthen operational coordination and enhance their capacity to respond swiftly to emerging threats.
‘This exercise has once again demonstrated that national security is a collective responsibility,’ he said.
The governor said the exercise was important to Delta because of its strategic position as a major economic, commercial and maritime hub hosting sensitive national assets.
He advised participants to sustain the lessons, skills, partnerships and operational capabilities acquired during the exercise, noting that they should not end with the closing ceremony.
‘As a government, we will continue to support initiatives that promote peace, security and stability in Delta State. We will strengthen existing collaboration with the Federal Government, security agencies, traditional institutions, communities and other stakeholders,’ he said.
The governor said no single institution could secure the communities alone.
He, therefore, enjoined participants to return to their commands as ambassadors of the knowledge and experience gained.
He expressed appreciation to ONSA for choosing Asaba as the venue and commended the participating security and emergency management agencies for their discipline, dedication and professionalism.
The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by the Director, PC4 Office of the National Security Adviser, Rear Admiral Adedotun Ayo-Vaughon, thanked Governor Oborevwori for his support and commitment to strengthening security architecture.
He said: ‘Your Excellency, we deeply appreciate your gracious acceptance to host the Rapid Response 3 in Delta State, the first of its kind outside the Federal Capital Territory.
‘This gesture is a testament to your administration’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of the people of Delta State, as well as your continued partnership with the Federal Government in advancing national security.’