By Peter Dansu The General Officer Commanding 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, has called on troops statio...
By Peter Dansu
The General Officer Commanding 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, has called on troops stationed in Badagry to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism and respect for the rule of law in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
The GOC gave the charge on Tuesday while addressing officers and soldiers of the 243 Recce Battalion at their parade ground in Badagry, Lagos, as part of his operational and familiarisation tour of units under the division.
Speaking during the visit, Major General Babalola said the tour was aimed at acquainting himself with formations and personnel, as well as assessing operational readiness and administrative structures. He expressed satisfaction with the conduct and professionalism displayed by the troops and urged them to sustain the tempo.
He noted that the Army is undergoing several reforms and transformations, assuring personnel that improvements in their conditions of service remain a priority. According to him, the leadership of the Army is committed to ensuring that the welfare and wellbeing of soldiers and their families are not compromised.
Reaffirming the Chief of Army Staff’s “Soldier First Culture,” the GOC reminded troops that their core values must reflect in their daily interactions, especially with civilians. He stressed that while firmness is required in dealing with terrorists and criminal elements across various theatres of operation, law-abiding citizens must never be subjected to harassment or molestation.
During his visit to the 243 Recce Battalion, the GOC commissioned a newly constructed bus stop at the unit’s main gate, an initiative of the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel AA Ikoro. He also took part in a symbolic tree-planting exercise, inspected armoured vehicles and visited the Battalion Medical Centre, where he interacted with personnel receiving treatment.
Major General Babalola later proceeded to the 15 Field Engineer Regiment at Topo Barracks, where he was received by the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel AE Amangele, who briefed him on the regiment’s operational engagements and ongoing activities. The GOC toured key facilities within the barracks, including the medical centre and the newly built Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association Crèche, Nursery and Primary School.
As part of his engagements in Badagry, the GOC paid a condolence visit to the palace of the late Akran of Badagry Kingdom, Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, who passed away at the age of 89. He described the monarch as a revered traditional ruler who served as a bridge builder and champion of culture, tourism and peace.
On behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, Major General Babalola extended heartfelt condolences to the royal family and the people of Badagry. He also commended the community for its continued support and hospitality to military formations stationed in the area.
The GOC was accompanied on the visit by formation commanders and senior staff officers of the 81 Division.
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