The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has lauded the troops of 81 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), for their dedication, resilience, and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation.
The commendation came during a special Eid-el-Kabir luncheon held in their honour at the 81 Division Garrison Parade Ground, Dodan Barracks, Obalende, Lagos, on Saturday, June 7, 2025. The COAS was represented at the event by the Corps Commander Education, Major General AP Oguntola.
In his goodwill message, the Army Chief acknowledged the unwavering courage of the personnel and the critical role they play in ensuring the unity, peace, and stability of Nigeria. He paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country and prayed for the repose of their souls, while reassuring that the Army remains committed to the welfare of their families.
Lieutenant General Oluyede also used the opportunity to commend the progress made in stabilising security nationwide. He noted that the Eid celebration, a season symbolising sacrifice and devotion, is a timely reminder for personnel to redouble their efforts in service to the nation. He expressed gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support and strategic leadership.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, praised troops for their efforts in maintaining peace and security within the Division’s Area of Responsibility (AOR). He encouraged sustained synergy with other security agencies and urged personnel to remain disciplined, professional, and committed to the core values of the Nigerian Army.
Major General Mijinyawa also commended the COAS for his guidance and support, which he said had significantly contributed to the operational successes recorded by the Division.
In a vote of thanks, the Commanding Officer, 81 Division Garrison Administrative Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel MA Agbor, expressed deep appreciation to the GOC, describing him as a pillar of strength whose leadership has helped in aligning the Division’s efforts with the COAS’s command philosophy. He also thanked formation commanders, officers, regimental sergeant majors, and soldiers—including those wounded in action—for their selfless service.
Highlights of the event included the symbolic serving of lunch to wounded soldiers by senior officers, the presentation of souvenirs, and group photographs.
The luncheon brought together senior commanders, principal staff officers, and troops of 81 Division, further reinforcing the Army’s commitment to camaraderie, troop welfare, and operational excellence.
