A significant milestone was achieved at the Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army as Major General Eyitayo Oyinlola officially assumed command as the 43rd General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the division. The ceremonial transition, which took place at the GOC’s Conference Room in Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, on Thursday 23 January 2025, featured senior military officials, Brigade Commanders, and dignitaries from various sectors, underscoring the importance of this leadership change in the region’s complex security landscape.

In his valedictory address, the outgoing GOC, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed Major General Oyinlola and highlighted the intricate nature of security challenges in Plateau State. “The security situation here is both complex and dynamic; it demands a multi-faceted strategy that includes both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches,” he stated. General Abubakar emphasized the necessity of not only engaging in combat operations against criminality and banditry but also mediating conflicts arising between agricultural communities, such as farmers and herders. “The operations in this region are inherently people-centric,” he remarked, expressing confidence in Major General Oyinlola’s ability to navigate these challenges effectively.

Major General Abubakar took the opportunity to express gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, NAM, for the trust placed in him during his tenure and acknowledged the invaluable support received from the government and security agencies in Plateau State. “Your collaboration has been instrumental in our efforts to ensure safety and security in the region. I urge you all to extend the same level of support to my successor,” he implored, reinforcing the importance of unity among security stakeholders.

In turn, Major General Oyinlola lauded his predecessor for his dedication and commitment to peace in Plateau State. “I intend to build upon the solid foundation laid by Major General Abubakar. The standards will not only be maintained but indeed improved upon,” he asserted, calling for an enhanced collaborative effort among all security stakeholders in the state to achieve lasting peace. By stressing the importance of unity and shared objectives, the new GOC signaled his intent to foster an inclusive approach to addressing security issues.

The transition ceremony was marked by several symbolic events, including the signing of handing and taking over notes, the presentation of the 3 Division insignia of command to the outgoing GOC, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion. The ceremonial quarter guard drills added to the significance of this historic event, which is expected to set the tone for the new leadership era under Major General Oyinlola.

The need for a holistic approach to combat the pervasive threats of criminal activity and insecurity in Plateau State has never been more pressing. As communities grapple with the realities of banditry and inter-communal conflicts, the call for innovative strategies and enhanced collaboration among all stakeholders becomes paramount. Major General Oyinlola’s commitment to picking up from where his predecessor left off sets a hopeful tone for the region.

The leadership transition at the 3 Division Nigerian Army represents not only a change in command but also a renewed commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property in Plateau State.

AI DANJA
Lt Col
Ac