Gov. Ben Ayade of Cross River has commended Brig.-Gen. Bulama Biu, the outgoing Commander of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Calabar, for building a 138-flat accommodation for soldiers in the barracks.
Ayade made the commendation on Tuesday in Calabar during a farewell visit to the Commander, who had served in the state for 11 months.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Tina Agbor, Ayade described Biu as a “fine gentleman” and “no nonsense” officer.
“Biu is an unassuming officer who can give out anything in fulfilment of his promise. The barracks is now wearing a new look due to his giant developmental strides.
“When he started demolishing the shanties in the barracks to replace them with modern buildings in this period of recession, I knew that the barracks was going to wear a new look.
“Today, this fine, gentle, officer has totally buried the issue of shanties in this barracks. Soldiers of 13 Brigade can now boast of a decent and comfortable accommodation.
“I pray that Biu gets higher recognition and not forget the people of Cross River, whom he had worked so much for,’’ the governor said.
Responding, Biu thanked the governor for his encouragement and support to the Brigade.
“I want to use this opportunity to thank the Chief of Army Staff for giving me the opportunity to serve in this capacity.
“The COAS has done so much in uplifting the face of this barracks; I must commend his efforts.’’
Biu charged officers and soldiers of the Brigade to remain professional in the discharge of their duties and give his successor the needed cooperation.
Meanwhile, some soldiers, who spoke with NAN in the barracks, commended Biu for providing them with a comfortable accommodation.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Biu has been transferred to the Army Headquarters, Abuja, and will be replaced by Brig.-Gen. Ismaila Isa, former Commander, 1 Division Garrison Command, Kaduna. (NAN)
GNO/OFN/NKO