Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State has undertaken an on-the-spot assessment of the ongoing rehabilitation and construction work at the rehabilitation Camp for the re-orientation and transformation training programme for ex-militants at Ogada II, Obubra local government area.

  Imoke was received at the camp by Mr. Nicholas Ayuwa, Chairman, Obubra Local Government, Council and Lt. Col. Larry Parkins (Rtd.) Commandant of the Camp, who conducted him round the facilities.

  Facilities inspected include the parameter fence fixed security mesh, new access road under construction; bore hole and water treatment plant, lecture halls, hostels and kitchen.

  Fielding questions from newsmen at the end of the inspection, Imoke said he was impressed with the level of work at the camp, saying that what he saw was an improvement on what existed  before as NYSC orientation camp.

He expressed appreciation over the level of work put in place, which include the fencing of the 14 hectares camp which has improved security and made the place more orderly for the enforcement of camp rules.

  The Governor disclosed that the problems encountered by the first batch of ex-militants at the camp were taken to the Presidency.

He noted that the ongoing rehabilitation had culminated in the delay for the take-off of the second batch to undergo training, adding that the request to the President resulted in  the handling of the critical components and water.

  He called on the management of the camp and contractors handling various works at the camp to employ the locals  and engage them in cooking and supplies.

Imoke disclosed that the state’s interest in the programme is to display its patriotic position on a national issue, while also accepting the request of President Goodluck Jonathan to play host.

  According to him, challenges encountered in the camp have been noted and steps taken by the Special Adviser to the President on Post -Amnesty Programme, adding that the result of the programme is a positive sign for the Niger Delta and the entire nation.

  According to him, though the state is not financially involved in the programme, the State Security Adviser represents the state in the planning and implementation of the project.

Cross Riverians, he continued,  are major beneficiaries of the ongoing projects in terms of its rehabilitation and construction.

  He stated that the camp will be a better place when given back to the NYSC after training exercise for the ex-militants has been completed as facilities there have been either upgraded or put in place.

  On his part, the Camp Commandant, Rtd Lt. Col. Parkins said the challenges experienced by the first batch of ex-militants have been adequately addressed, while security has been enforced.