The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commissioned a newly constructed sports complex at the 35 Artillery Brigade, Alamala Barracks, Abeokuta, and urged military personnel to maintain and make good use of the facility.
The commissioning took place on Tuesday June 2,2026. The sports complex includes a modern football pitch, basketball court, and volleyball court.
The remodeled Operations Room of the Brigade was also commissioned during the event.
Representing the Army Chief at the ceremony, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, praised the outgoing Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba, for initiating projects that improve the welfare of soldiers and their families.
A statement signed by Major Samuel Akari Idereghi, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 35 Artillery Brigade, and made available to journalists in Abeokuta on Wednesday, said the Army Chief described the projects as being in line with the Nigerian Army’s “Soldier First” concept.
According to the COAS, the projects demonstrate good leadership and commitment to the welfare of troops. He noted that the facilities would promote physical fitness, improve the working environment, and support the overall well-being of military personnel.
Lieutenant General Shaibu stressed the importance of proper maintenance of the facilities, assuring that their usage would be monitored to ensure they continue to serve soldiers and future generations.
He also flagged off the “Operation Bush-to-Palm Plantation” initiative, during which invited guests planted palm trees to encourage environmental sustainability within the barracks.
The Army Chief stated that sports development and environmental conservation are important aspects of military administration. He added that the sports complex would serve as a venue for various Nigerian Army sporting activities and competitions, while also reducing future costs associated with hosting sporting events.
He further commended Brigadier General Nwamba for his dedication, discipline, and service, describing the projects as evidence of purposeful and selfless leadership.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Honourable Wasiu Isiaka, who represented the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, praised the Nigerian Army for its contributions to peace, security, and community development.
He said the Ogun State Government remains committed to working with security agencies to promote youth development, community growth, and economic progress.
The commissioner described sports as a powerful tool for building discipline, teamwork, leadership, and social unity. He expressed confidence that the new facility would benefit both military personnel and youths in the surrounding community.
The event was attended by several notable personalities, including Ogun State Sports Ambassador, Segun Odegbami, retired military officers, business leaders, community representatives, and other stakeholders.
