The newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Nigerian Army’s 81 Division, Major General A. A. Babalola, on Tuesday embarked on a familiarisation visit to formations and units under his command, beginning with the 35 Artillery Brigade Command, Alamala, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Addressing officers and soldiers of the brigade, Major General Babalola said the visit was to acquaint himself with formations within his Area of Responsibility and to convey the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff to troops at all levels.
He explained that the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy is anchored on five key pillars, the foremost being professionalism, stressing that every soldier must exhibit a high level of professionalism in the discharge of assigned duties.
The GOC also highlighted robust administration, assuring personnel that the Army leadership remains committed to improving soldiers’ welfare and providing the necessary support required for effective service delivery.
On operational efficiency, Major General Babalola urged troops to approach every assignment with utmost seriousness, whether deployed on Operation MESA, Operation AWASE, securing the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, or conducting internal security operations such as anti-kidnapping missions within their areas of responsibility.
Speaking on strategic cooperation, the GOC emphasized the need for close collaboration with other security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Customs, and Immigration.
He noted that contemporary security challenges can no longer be tackled by the military alone, adding that effective inter-agency cooperation is essential to safeguarding lives and property and ensuring that law-abiding citizens live without fear.
He further underscored the importance of exemplary leadership, stating that leadership by example is expected of all ranks, from officers to the last soldier. According to him, non-commissioned officers and soldiers must also display discipline and leadership qualities in their daily conduct, stressing that exemplary leadership is not exclusive to ofnation.
After addressing the officers, the GOC proceeded to inspect the ongoing construction of a stadium within the barracks, expressing interest in facilities that enhance troops’ welfare and morale.
Major General Babalola was received by the Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba, alongside other senior officers of the brigade.
The GOC concluded by encouraging troops to uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army and remain committed to professionalism, discipline, and selfless service to the nation.
