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ABUJA — The Federal Ministry of Defence has received a proposal from the Oyo Alaafin community for the establishment of a military cantonment in Oyo State, a move aimed at strengthening security architecture and tackling rising threats of banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities in the region.
The proposal was presented on Monday when a delegation from the Oyo Alafin Society (Oyo Forum), Abuja, paid a courtesy visit to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, on behalf of the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Alayeluwa Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I.
During the meeting, the delegation informed the Ministry that the Oyo community had resolved to make available a vast expanse of land for the construction of a military cantonment designed to bolster the operational capacity of the Armed Forces in the area.
The proposed facility, according to the delegation, would serve as a strategic security hub capable of addressing emerging security challenges while enhancing the military’s rapid response capabilities across Oyo State and neighbouring communities.
Responding to the proposal, Pheelangwah described the initiative as both timely and commendable, noting that the Ministry viewed the offer as a significant contribution toward national security efforts.
He expressed appreciation to the delegation and assured them that the proposal would receive due consideration by the Ministry.
“The initiative is noble and demonstrates the commitment of the Oyo community to supporting the Federal Government’s efforts at ensuring peace and security across the country,” the Permanent Secretary said.
He, however, explained that any positive response from the Ministry would be subject to the completion of all necessary procedures, including the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in line with established government processes.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Board for Technology Incubation, Engr. Kolawole Raji, lauded the Minister of Defence and officials of the Ministry for their sustained efforts in safeguarding lives and property nationwide.
Raji disclosed that community leaders and stakeholders in the Oyo Alaafin community had identified and earmarked land bordering the Old Oyo National Park near Otefon Town in Atiba Local Government Area for the proposed military formation.
According to him, the location possesses the strategic advantages required for a modern military cantonment and could accommodate a wide range of military and support infrastructure.
He explained that the proposed facility would be designed to host units of the Nigerian Army, operational formations of the Nigerian Air Force, military training institutions, healthcare facilities, residential quarters, commercial centres, and other critical security installations.
Raji further stated that beyond making land available, the Oyo community was prepared to collaborate with the Armed Forces of Nigeria by providing all lawful support necessary to ensure the successful execution and sustainability of the project.
He expressed optimism that the proposed cantonment would not only improve security within Oyo State but also contribute significantly to regional stability and socio-economic development.
Although the Alaafin of Oyo was unable to attend the meeting in person, he conveyed a goodwill message through a recorded video presentation, expressing confidence that the Federal Government would give favourable consideration to the proposal.
Similar messages of support were delivered through video presentations by Senator Yunus Abiodun Akintunde, representing Oyo Central Senatorial District, and Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, who represents Oyo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Senior directors and officials of the Ministry of Defence were also present during the engagement, which focused on strengthening collaboration between local communities and security institutions in addressing evolving security challenges across the country.
The proposed military cantonment, if approved, is expected to significantly expand the security footprint of the Armed Forces in Oyo State while providing a strategic base for military operations, training, and community security initiatives in the South-West region.
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