Lagos — The Nigerian Army on Monday said it will soon deploy soldiers to Ogun State to assist other security agencies fight crime in the metropolis.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Ken Minima, who made the disclosure while fiel-ding questions from journalists at the opening ceremony of the Division's training week in Lagos, said arrangements for the deployment was at the final stage.

General Minima said the soldiers will patrol the nooks and crannies of Ogun to dislodge criminals, who might wish to convert the city into a safe haven for their activities.

"We are still working on it and tying loose ends. We will deploy soldiers to Ogun State to assist other security agencies fight crime as soon as arrangements are concluded," he added.

He stated that the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army has enjoyed a good working relationship with other agencies of government within its area of responsibility.

The GOC added that the training was to enhance the professional knowledge and capacity of Army officers.

In his keynote address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Azubuike Ihiejirika, said the Army has a vital role to play not only in the defence of the territorial integrity of the nation, but also in shaping the security environment in a manner that will sustain economic growth and development.