The newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, has issued a stern warning to officers and men of the division, declaring that he would not tolerate any compromise of professional standards under his command.
Major General Babalola, who officially assumed office on Tuesday, made this known during a brief handover ceremony in Lagos, where he pledged to sustain discipline, professionalism and operational excellence, while building on the achievements of his predecessor.
“For those who have worked with me, you should know that I do not compromise standards,” the GOC said. “Once we remain professional and refuse to lower our standards, you will not have any problem with me. But anyone who compromises standards will have me to contend with.”
Emphasising the expectations of Nigerians from the Armed Forces, Babalola recalled the words of a former Chief of Army Staff, noting that the military remained a national institution drawn from all parts of the country.
“We are all Nigerians, and Nigerians expect so much from the military. If we key into the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, we will achieve great success. The mantra is simple: mission success,” he stated.
The GOC stressed that there was no excuse for failure in the discharge of the Army’s constitutional responsibilities, describing the military as the backbone of national stability.
“All Nigerians expect so much from us. Every day, we must redouble our efforts to make Nigeria safe, support the democratic process and create an enabling environment for economic development to thrive,” he added.
Major General Babalola expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve and paid glowing tribute to the outgoing GOC, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, whom he described as a highly respected, disciplined and professional officer.
He recalled that both officers shared a long professional history dating back to 1992 as cadets at the Nigerian Defence Academy, adding that he had also worked under Mijinyawa at Army Headquarters and benefited immensely from his leadership.
“I am stepping into big shoes, but I will continue to consult with you from time to time,” Babalola said, assuring that the strong foundation laid by his predecessor had placed him on “very sound footing” to succeed.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to national security, democratic governance and economic growth, urging officers and men to continually redouble their efforts in the discharge of their duties.
Earlier, the outgoing GOC, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, said the 81 Division recorded remarkable operational, training and administrative milestones during his 18 month tenure, attributing the successes to professionalism, discipline and effective inter-agency collaboration.
Describing his tenure as fulfilling, Mijinyawa said he was privileged to have worked with “some of the finest officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army,” whose dedication enabled the division to effectively deliver on its mandate under the motto, “Strength and Resilience.”
He disclosed that the division maintained optimal operational readiness throughout the period, contributing significantly to internal security operations and joint assignments across its area of responsibility.
In the area of training, the division successfully conducted all activities outlined in the Nigerian Army focus of events,” he said, adding that the formation hosted four major Army level training exercises in 2025, including the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference.
According to him, hosting the conference was a strong vote of confidence by Army Headquarters in the capacity and professionalism of the division.
On operations, Mijinyawa said the division effectively secured the South Western flank of the country, working closely with sister security agencies to maintain peace and stability in Lagos and Ogun states.
He disclosed that notable successes were recorded in reducing criminal activities through joint operations, including an ongoing joint international operation.
Administratively, the outgoing GOC said discipline within the division remained “very satisfactory,” with incidents of illegal duties by soldiers drastically reduced.
He also highlighted major infrastructural improvements facilitated by Army Headquarters, including the construction and renovation of accommodation for officers and soldiers, as well as enhanced lift capability to boost operational effectiveness.
Mijinyawa expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for the confidence reposed in him, as well as to principal staff officers at Army Headquarters, divisional commanders, officers and soldiers, other security agencies, stakeholders and the media for their support.
Welcoming his successor, he described Major General Babalola as a seasoned officer and long-time colleague, expressing confidence that he would surpass existing achievements.
“I urge all officers and soldiers to give him maximum support and redouble their efforts,” he said, assuring that he remained available for consultations
He concluded by thanking officers and men of the division for their commitment and dedication, which he said enabled the formation to excel during his tenure.
