Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, has called on members of film actors guild of Nigeria comprising Nollywood stars to complement and help boost the efforts of Nigerian Army in the counter-insurgency war, and other violent criminality across the country.
The COAS said this can be achieved through the production of movies and entertaining jingles that sensitize the general public about the ills of engaging in terrorism and other criminal activities, while also enlightening teeming citizens about the Army’s strides in tackling diverse security problems plaguing the nation.
Buratai who spoke while hosting a delegation of the Actors Guild led by its Acting President, Mr. Steve Eboh, at the Army Headquarters, applauded the efforts of the eminent actors, actresses and the Nollywood industry in general for the massive jobs it has created for many unemployed youths in the country.
His words, “The great works you have been doing has not gone unnoticed. And I must say that, it is because of your dedication to nation building, economic growth and selfless service to humanity that you are succeeding in what you are passionately doing”.
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He pledged to partner the Guild of Actors in order to project the image of the country, saying the Nigerian Military and Army in particular, will not relent in its bid to rid the country of unscrupulous, retrogressive and terrorist elements, whose ‘evil activities’ constitute a threat to national peace and harmony.
Buratai later granted a request by Actors Guild for a ‘Novelty Match’ at a scheduled date, and also invited them to participate in the Army and other Security Agencies’ Half Marathon race at the Aguiyi Ironsi Cantonment and other sporting and entertaining activities.
Mr. Steve Eboh, in a speech during the courtesy call, commended the COAS for the professional leadership qualities he has exhibited since his appointment, which has driven the Army to an enviable height.
He said the essence of their visit is to foster a mutual and beneficial relationship with the Army, so as to get Army’s maximum protection for their members who engage in film productions in volatile areas across the country, especially the North-East.
“As cultural and brand ambassadors, I want to assure you that our members are very available for some of your advocacy programmes by producing drama clips to support your public environment campaign drive to aid the accomplishment of your set objectives.
“We have also agreed to produce a documentary and jingles featuring our veterans, just to showcase to the world the combat achievements of the Nigerian Army and laudable efforts of the troops to safeguard our territorial integrity,” he stated.
Among actors that were present at the were Sani Danja, Chief Zebrudaya and other notable players in the movie industry.
