New GOC 6 Division Targets Boost in Oil Production to 2.5 Million Barrels Per Day
New GOC 6 Division Targets Boost in Oil Production to 2.5 Million Barrels Per Day
Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Emekah has officially assumed command as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, pledging to surpass the federal government’s oil production target of 2.3 million barrels per day. In his maiden address on Friday at the division’s headquarters, following a handover ceremony from his predecessor, Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdussalam, Emekah emphasized the strategic importance of the 6 Division to Nigeria’s economy and the Presidency.
Highlighting the division’s role in combating economic sabotage, Emekah vowed to intensify efforts to curb illegal oil activities and boost production levels. He urged his officers to aim higher, targeting 2.5 million barrels per day. “We will not disappoint you. The task, we are not looking at 2.3; we are looking at 2.5 million barrels per day so that even if we miss it, we will drop to 2.4 million barrels per day,” he said.
Emekah also stressed his hands-on leadership approach, stating, “I am not the commander that sits in the office. I will be in the field with my troops, leading by example.” He underscored the importance of welfare for officers and their families, noting it as a critical factor in achieving success.
Emekah described his predecessor, Abdussalam, as a mentor and praised his leadership. He promised to build on Abdussalam’s achievements while continuing to seek his guidance. In his farewell address, Maj.-Gen. Abdussalam commended the dedication and hard work of the troops during his tenure, highlighting their role in safeguarding national infrastructure and improving oil production. “Oil production has continued to rise from about 1.2 to 1.9 million barrels per day. The federal government’s target of 2.3 million barrels per day is achievable, and I urge you all to push harder,” he said.
Abdussalam also urged the troops to remain focused, avoid any form of connivance with criminals, and step up efforts against illegal oil bunkering and economic sabotage. “You must continue to safeguard critical national infrastructure and work towards achieving the division’s goals,” he charged.
The handover ceremony was attended by senior military officials, including the Chief of Staff and heads of units and commands.
