No critical military equipment bought in 25 years —Obanikoro
The Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, at the weekend lamented the lack of what he called critical equipment for the military.
Obanikoro, during a familiarisation tour of the headquarters of the Central Naval Command in Bayelsa State, noted that no major acquisitions of platforms for the Navy, as well as ammunition and equipment for the military generally had been made in the past 25 years.
He, however, dismissed claims that military personnel are not well motivated in the fight against terrorism and oil theft in the Niger Delta, saying President Goodluck Jonathan has done a lot for them.
Obanikoro said, “It is not true that the military is not well motivated. We must recognise and appreciate the efforts of President Goodluck Jonathan, since he came on board.
“I can tell you that in the past 25 years, we have not made major acquisitions in terms of platforms for the Navy, ammunition and equipment generally for the military.
“But Jonathan has started doing that now and it is that neglect that we are suffering today. There is no doubt that we have both men and women who can deliver under any situation and they are acclaimed worldwide to be among the best. If they can solve issues outside, why will they not be able to solve issues at home.”