THE EFFORTS OF 2 DIVISION NIGERIAN ARMY IN SUPPORTING SECURITY OF OYO STATE GOVERNMENT, ITS GOOD PEOPLE IS SINCERELY APPRECIATED

The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Oluwaseyi Makinde, has stated that the public recognises efforts of 2 Division Nigerian Army (NA) in supporting security of Oyo State Government and its people. The Deputy Governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, who represented the Governor as Special Guest of Honour (SGoH) made the statement while delivering remarks during the 2 Division West African Social Activities (WASA) 2024, held at Major General JM Inienger Sports Complex, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, on 24 January, 2025.

Governor Makinde, noted that his presence at the occasion, was to identify with the NA personnel and family members, and appreciate them for the good work they do in Oyo State and the nation at large. He said, “I want to urge officers, soldiers and families of 2 Division NA, that my administration will remain committed to sustaining the already existing cordial Civil Military relationship to a greater level for the betterment of the good people of Oyo State.” He added that the impact of NA in the state, has resulted to greater achievements within the period, strengthening the people’s positive perception of the NA.

The Governor, also applauded the initiative behind WASA, adding that it is one of the major binding factors linking up the NA, and other Nigerian citizens. Speaking further, the Governor, confirmed that the NA is continuously improving in its roles in aid to civil authority; sighting curtailment of activities of criminals, kidnappers, illegal miners amongst others, as practical evidence. “Indeed, your presence in Oyo State has helped secure our state, and ensured we deliver on our administration’s promises to our people in all 33 LGAs of Oyo State. I have personally noted the achievements of OPERATION BURST in Oyo State, where the Troops of 2 Division play a key role, as well as their assistance in building synergy and collaboration with other security agencies in the state.”

He commended Major General Onubogu, officers and soldiers of 2 Division for their relentless efforts, assuring that Oyo State government and people will continue to support and cooperate with the NA in order to reap the full devedends of peace and security.

Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division NA, Major General Obinna Onubogu, expressed delight to the representative of the Governor, and other dignitaries for gracing the occasion. He noted that WASA, is an event designed to offer officers and soldiers the opportunity to recount past operational activities, celebrate their culture, and reorganize themselves for the tasks ahead in the new year. He enjoined all officers, soldiers as well as their families and friends, to rejoice and felicitate with one another for a successful end of the year in all NA activities under 2 Division.

General Onubogu, thanked the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, NAM, for the confidence reposed on him, and the opportunity to pilot the affairs of 2 Division NA, under his strategic guidance and directives. Recounting the successes recorded by the Division within the period under review, the GOC, noted that the Division has sustained collaboration with other security agencies in a bid to maintaining security and peaceful coexistence amongst citizens within the Divisions Area of Responsibility (AOR).

“The Division has conducted several operations to checkmate banditry, illegal mining, kidnapping, armed robbery, smuggling, impersonation, and other sundry crimes”, he said. He conveyed the appreciation of the COAS, to officers and soldiers of the Division; noting that the achievements recorded were the results of their individual and collective efforts, which he said, were done in the most professional manner. He said the COAS recognises that the feats achieved by the NA in all its operations and responsibilities, would not have been possible without the understanding and support from families and friends.

He further appreciated the Executive Governor of Oyo State, and all members of government, including traditional custodians, clergies, as well as citizens for the support given to the Division. “Because you host the Headquarters of 2 Division, I want to assure you, we will not rest but we shall redouble our efforts in maintaining a safe and secure environment for law abiding citizens to carry out their legitimate businesses in Oyo State.”

He extended gratitude to the good people of Edo, Ekiti, Kogi, Kwara, Ondo, Osun and Niger States; saying they have generously supported the activities and operations of the Division. He also appreciated the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), Oyo State Command, Department of State Services (DSS), Oyo State, and other sister security agencies for their contributions through sustained synergy and cooperation.

While thanking the COAS for his magnanimity in supporting 2 Division, he pledged the Division’s continued loyalty to him as well as to the Commander – in – Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

The Commander, 2 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Haruna Dasuki, who was Chairman, Central Organising Committee for 2 Division WASA 2024, in a vote of thanks, appreciated the Governor and all Dignitaries, invited guests as well as families and friends for being part of the celebration. He also appreciated the GOC for the support and guidance given to him during the stages of preparations, while thanking Chairmen and members of the various Sub – Committees for their contributions towards the success of the event.

Dignitaries who were present at the occasion include; Major General O Popoola (Rtd), Major General AM Alabi (Rtd), Members of Oyo State Executive Council, the Clergy, and Traditional Leaders. Others were; Executives of Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), 2 Division Chapter, Commanders of various Formations under 2 Division, Colonel JAP Oladipo (Rtd) – Director General, OPERATION BURST, Oyo State, as well as several serving and retired senior officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

The celebration, featured traditional music and dance displays, tour of formations and units stands by the SGoH, GOC and Dignitaries as well as presentation of awards, gifts and souvenirs. Beating of retreat marked the climax of the event.