The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commissioned a series of strategic legacy projects at Headquarters 81 Division Garrison, Dodan Barracks, Obalende, Lagos, with a strong charge to commanders to leave lasting and measurable impacts in their various formations.
The projects were inaugurated during a ceremony held on Thursday as part of activities marking the 2026 Eid El-Kabir celebrations with troops of the Nigerian Army.
Represented by the Corps Commander Ordnance, Major General Abdullahi Ibrahim, the COAS declared that commanders must embrace value addition and institutional transformation as key responsibilities of leadership in the Nigerian Army.
He stressed that officers entrusted with command positions must consistently improve facilities, operational structures and personnel welfare in line with the vision of a modern and combat ready Army.
Among the projects commissioned were the remodeled Garrison Main Gate, refurbished Commander’s Staff Car, upgraded Garrison Car Park, newly constructed Garrison Photo Stand, remodeled Operations Room and renovated 13 family Corporals and Below Quarters.
The COAS commended the Commander 81 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Ahmed Getso, for executing the projects within a short period, describing the achievements as a demonstration of initiative, commitment and purposeful leadership.
He urged other commanders across formations and units to emulate the example by pursuing projects capable of strengthening operational efficiency and improving the welfare of personnel.
Lieutenant General NAM also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustaining support to the Nigerian Army, noting that the backing of the Commander in Chief has continued to boost operational effectiveness nationwide.
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, expressed satisfaction with the quality and speed of execution of the projects.
The GOC stated that meaningful leadership is measured not by excuses or challenges but by visible results capable of advancing institutional growth and operational readiness.
Earlier, Brigadier General Ahmed Getso explained that the projects were designed to improve security architecture, operational coordination and troop welfare in line with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff.
He appreciated officers, soldiers and civilian staff of the Division for their support and dedication towards the successful completion of the projects.
The Commander also commended the leadership of the GOC 81 Division for providing guidance and support throughout the execution process.
The commissioning ceremony attracted senior military officers, heads of security agencies and distinguished guests from within and outside Lagos State.
Highlights of the event included the ceremonial presentation of the first Quarter Guard at the remodeled entrance, exchange of souvenirs and group photographs.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff also celebrated Eid El Kabir with troops of 81 Division Nigerian Army, praising officers and soldiers for their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping, banditry and oil theft across the country.
Speaking during the Eid El Kabir luncheon held at the 81 Division Garrison Parade Ground, Obalende, the COAS applauded troops for their courage, loyalty and professionalism in difficult operational environments.
Represented again by Major General Abdullahi Ibrahim, the Army Chief said the resilience of troops has continued to contribute immensely to operational successes recorded across various theatres of operation.
He described Eid El Kabir as a symbol of sacrifice, faith and devotion, adding that the values closely reflect the ethics and responsibilities of military service.
The COAS paid tribute to fallen heroes who lost their lives defending Nigeria, while assuring their families of the Nigerian Army’s continued commitment to their welfare and support.
Lieutenant General NAM reaffirmed that troop welfare, sound administration and infrastructural renewal remain central pillars of his leadership philosophy, disclosing that efforts were ongoing to improve living and working conditions in formations nationwide.
He further urged officers and soldiers to remain disciplined, resolute and professional in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities to the nation.
In his welcome address, Major General Adebayo Babalola noted that the Eid luncheon was organised to reinforce troop welfare and boost morale among officers and soldiers serving under the Division.
The event featured presentation of souvenirs to the Special Guest of Honour, gifts to wounded soldiers and widows, colourful cultural displays by Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo groups, alongside group photographs that rounded off the celebrations.