The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Abdulrahman Babalola, has commended troops of Operation ATILEYIN ALAFIA II for their exemplary conduct during their deployment to the Republic of Benin, while challenging commanders across the division to deliver measurable results that enhance operational effectiveness and troop welfare.

Speaking at the 243 Reconnaissance Battalion Parade Ground, Ibereko Barracks, Badagry, Lagos, where he received the returning troops, Major General Babalola praised their discipline, professionalism and commitment throughout the mission.

He recalled that before their deployment, he had charged the troops to serve as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria and the Nigerian Army, expressing satisfaction that they returned after successfully accomplishing their assignment while upholding the Army’s core values of professionalism, discipline, courage and loyalty.

The GOC disclosed that the troops’ outstanding performance had earned the commendation of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who expressed satisfaction with their conduct during the operation.

He further revealed that arrangements were underway for the award of operational medals to recognise the troops’ meritorious service.

While congratulating the soldiers, Major General Babalola urged them to maintain the high standards they had demonstrated and cautioned them against any action capable of tarnishing the enviable reputation they had earned.

Earlier, at the Headquarters, 81 Division Garrison, Dodan Barracks, Obalende, Lagos, the GOC commissioned several strategic infrastructural projects and charged commanders under the division to make their leadership count by initiating projects that improve operational efficiency, strengthen troop welfare and leave visible impacts in their units and formations.

The projects commissioned included the renovated Arm Store, the Commanding Officer’s Administrative Office, the Garrison Commander’s Office, the Personal Assistant’s Office and the Commander’s Waiting Room.

Also unveiled were the refurbished Garrison Headquarters Complex, a renovated Training Shed and the groundbreaking ceremony for a modern children’s playground within the barracks.

Commending the Commander, 81 Division Garrison, Brigadier General AI Getso, Major General Babalola described the projects as evidence of purposeful leadership and commitment to improving operational readiness and the welfare of personnel.

According to him, the initiatives are in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s “Soldier First Culture” command philosophy, which places the welfare and morale of soldiers at the centre of military leadership.

He reminded commanders that leadership should be judged by tangible achievements.

“Every month, I must see the impact of what you are doing in your units and formations,” he said.

The GOC noted that the proposed children’s playground underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the welfare of military families, while the renovated Arm Store would enhance accountability and operational preparedness.

He also urged officers and soldiers to maintain the facilities properly, stressing that infrastructure can only remain valuable through discipline, responsibility and professionalism.

In his remarks, Brigadier General Getso said the projects were executed to improve the Garrison’s operational effectiveness and provide a better working and living environment for personnel.

He disclosed that the children’s playground would provide a safe recreational space for children living in the barracks and would be named the Major General Adebayo Abdulrahman Babalola Children’s Playground in recognition of the GOC’s leadership and support.

The Garrison Commander also appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his strategic leadership and unwavering support, while thanking the GOC, former Garrison Commanders, friends of the barracks, officers and soldiers for their contributions to the successful execution of the projects.

The ceremony attracted Formation Commanders, former Commanders of the 81 Division Garrison, senior officers and other distinguished guests.

It ended with an inspection of the newly commissioned facilities, the groundbreaking ceremony for the children’s playground, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.