In a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to strengthening grassroots security and recognising the sacrifices of community-based security personnel, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has approved the payment of two months’ allowances to the 540 volunteers of the Cross River State Homeland Safety and Security Agency serving across the Northern Senatorial District.
The disbursement of the allowances was carried out on Saturday at the Headquarters of the Homeland Safety and Security Agency in Ogoja by the Director of the Homeland Safety and Security Agency (North), Hon. Comrade Raphael Odu (aka “Defence”), on behalf of the Governor.
Addressing the volunteers, Hon. Odu conveyed Governor Otu’s appreciation for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across communities in the northern part of the state. He commended the volunteers for working harmoniously with other security agencies in combating crime and maintaining peace and order.
He noted that their dedication and vigilance had significantly contributed to reducing incidents of criminality, kidnapping and other social vices within the region, resulting in safer and more secure communities.
According to him, the payment of the allowances is intended to boost the morale of the volunteers and provide support in meeting some of their immediate needs, while reaffirming the administration’s appreciation of their invaluable service.
“The Governor deeply appreciates your sacrifice, patriotism and commitment to duty. Your efforts have continued to complement those of conventional security agencies and have greatly enhanced the security architecture of Cross River North.
“This allowance is a token of appreciation and encouragement for your selfless service. Be assured that the government remains committed to supporting you, and more welfare packages will be introduced to reward your dedication as we collectively build a safer, healthier, more progressive and economically viable Cross River State,” he said.
Hon. Odu further urged the volunteers to remain disciplined, vigilant and committed to their responsibilities, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility that requires sustained cooperation between government, security agencies and local communities.
Responding on behalf of the volunteers, leaders drawn from the various communities expressed profound gratitude to Governor Otu for prioritising their welfare despite the enormous demands on government.
They described the Governor as a compassionate and people-centred leader whose administration has consistently demonstrated genuine concern for the welfare and security of the people of Cross River State.
The volunteers pledged their continued loyalty to the mandate of the Homeland Safety and Security Agency, assuring the Governor of their renewed commitment to professionalism, vigilance and proactive community policing in support of efforts to sustain peace, security and development across the Northern Senatorial District.
It would be recalled that recently the Governor reached out and empowered some of the volunteers with motorbikes, food items and funds.