No Excuses for Failure”: New 81 Division GOC, Babalola Reads Riot Act to Army Personnel

By Love Oyedokun

Lagos, Nigeria – Major General Adebayo Babalola, the newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, has wasted no time in setting a firm tone for his command, issuing a strong warning to officers and men against compromising professional standards. Babalola, who assumed office on Tuesday, made it clear that he expects unwavering dedication and adherence to the highest levels of discipline, vowing to hold accountable anyone who falls short.

Cablenews24 reports that the stern message was delivered during a brief handover ceremony at the 81 Division headquarters in Lagos, where Babalola officially took over from his predecessor, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa. The event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the division, which is responsible for the security of Lagos and Ogun states, as well as the broader South-Western region of Nigeria.

“For those that have worked with me, you should know that I don’t compromise standards,” Babalola declared. “Once we don’t compromise standards and we are professional, you will not have any problem with me.” He emphasized the importance of upholding the values and principles of the Nigerian Army, reminding personnel that they are the “backbone of Nigeria” and that the nation expects nothing less than their utmost dedication.

Babalola also invoked the “command philosophy” of the Chief of Army Staff, stressing the importance of mission success. “There is no excuse for the military to fail Nigerians,” he said. “Every day we must continue to redouble our effort to make Nigeria safe and to enable democratic process and economic development of this country to thrive.”

The 81 Division plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in the South-West, a region that is vital to Nigeria’s economic prosperity. Lagos, in particular, is the country’s commercial hub and a major center for international trade and investment. The division is responsible for protecting critical infrastructure, combating crime, and ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike.

The Nigerian Army has a long and proud history of service to the nation, dating back to the colonial era. Over the years, it has played a key role in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, maintaining internal security, and contributing to international peacekeeping efforts. However, the Army has also faced challenges, including allegations of human rights abuses and corruption.

The appointment of Major General Babalola as GOC of the 81 Division comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with a range of security threats, including banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. The Army is at the forefront of efforts to combat these threats, and the leadership of the 81 Division is critical to the success of these efforts.

Babalola expressed gratitude to God and paid tribute to his predecessor, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, whom he described as a “highly respected, disciplined, and professional officer.” He noted that the two officers share a long professional history, dating back to their days as cadets at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1992.

“It is a big shoe I am entering, but I will continue to consult with you from time to time,” Babalola said, assuring Mijinyawa that he would build upon the foundation that had been laid. He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to national security, democratic governance, and economic development, stressing that officers must continually redouble their efforts to make Nigeria safe.

In his farewell remarks, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa highlighted the significant operational, training, and administrative successes that the 81 Division had achieved during his 18-month tenure. He attributed these achievements to the professionalism, discipline, and inter-agency cooperation of the division’s personnel.

Mijinyawa noted that the division had maintained an optimal level of operational readiness, contributing significantly to successes in both internal security operations and joint assignments. He also highlighted the division’s success in reducing criminal activities through joint operations and collaboration with other security agencies.

Administratively, Mijinyawa said that discipline within the division remained “very satisfactory,” with cases of illegal duties by soldiers drastically reduced. He also noted that the division had witnessed major infrastructural development, including the construction and renovation of accommodation for officers and soldiers.

As Babalola takes command of the 81 Division, he faces the challenge of maintaining the high standards set by his predecessor while also addressing the evolving security threats facing the region. His stern warning to personnel against compromising standards suggests that he is determined to enforce discipline and accountability within the division.

The coming months will be a test of Babalola’s leadership as he seeks to build on the successes of the past and lead the 81 Division in its mission to protect the people of Lagos and Ogun states and contribute to the overall security of Nigeria. The nation will be watching closely to see how he rises to the challenge

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