Benin City witnessed a powerful show of solidarity on Friday as the Nigerian Army, alongside sister security agencies, embarked on a 10-kilometre road march across the city to demonstrate unity, preparedness, and a coordinated resolve to tackle crime in Edo State.
The exercise was spearheaded by Brigadier-General Ahmed Balogun, Commander of the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, who personally participated in the march to lead by example and reinforce the importance of fitness and discipline in military and security operations.
The march brought together personnel from multiple agencies, including:
- Nigerian Police Force
- Nigerian Air Force
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- Department of State Services (DSS)
- National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)
- Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)
- Nigeria Immigration Service
- National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)
The road march commenced from the 4 Brigade headquarters along Golf Course Road in the Government Reservation Area (GRA). The procession moved through Dennis Osadebe Avenue, Ikpokpan, Sapele Road, Ring Road, and Airport Road, before returning to the brigade headquarters.
Speaking after the exercise, Brig.-Gen. Balogun explained that the march was designed to showcase the physical fitness, solidarity, and collective strength of security agencies in Edo.
“I did not tell anybody to represent me. I walked the whole distance. It means I am fit, and you are all fit. That is the standard we must maintain,” he said.
Balogun emphasized that the exercise was also aimed at reassuring residents of their safety, especially as the festive season approaches.
“What we have done this morning sends a strong message to everybody in the city. People saw the Army, the Police, Civil Defence, NDLEA, DSS, Road Safety, Immigration and others marching together. It shows that we are united and one in the fight against insecurity in Edo State,” he added.
The commander noted that the large turnout of over 500 uniformed personnel would serve as a deterrent to criminal elements.
“We have also sent a message to the bad guys. When they see over 500 of us marching, they know that there is more from where this came from. Those planning evil should rethink and turn a new leaf,” Balogun warned.
Balogun described the road march as an annual end-of-year exercise marking the conclusion of the brigade’s training calendar. He explained that it served multiple objectives: reinforcing inter-agency collaboration, boosting public confidence, and deterring crime.
“The march went through the length and breadth of Benin City to reassure residents that they can enjoy the Yuletide, Christmas and New Year celebrations and sleep with their two eyes closed. For miscreants and lawless individuals, they should be ready to face the full wrath of the law,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustained collaboration with sister agencies, stressing that the 4 Brigade would continue to work closely with partners to maintain peace and security across Edo State.
