By Philip Nwosu
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Umar Mijinyawa, has commissioned a series of accommodation and welfare projects at the 243 Recce Battalion in Ibereko Barracks, Badagry, Lagos State. These initiatives aim to enhance operational efficiency, improve living conditions, and upgrade recreational facilities for soldiers and their families.
The commissioned projects include a newly built residence for the Commanding Officer, newly constructed quarters for corporals and below, and a remodelled Senior Non-Commissioned Officers’ Quarters. Additionally, a recreational facility at the Soldiers’ Club, a new mess hall at the Warrant Officers and Sergeants’ Mess, and a cemetery dedicated to fallen soldiers were unveiled.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Major General Mijinyawa emphasised the Nigerian Army’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of soldiers and their families. He noted that these efforts align with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, which focuses on improving troop welfare and enhancing operational efficiency.
According to the GOC, the 81 Division has been a significant beneficiary of the COAS’s dedication to troop welfare. He expressed his gratitude to the COAS for his steadfast commitment and urged the troops to remain devoted and steadfast in fulfilling their duties.
Major General Mijinyawa also commended the collaboration between the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in Badagry, which he credited for maintaining security in the area. He encouraged the agencies to sustain their joint efforts to ensure the safety of lives and properties.
The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Akran of Badagry, heads of other security agencies, and captains of industry in the area. A highlight of the event was the symbolic handing over of keys to the beneficiaries of the new accommodation projects.