GOC Commissions COAS Initiated Projects at 192 Battalion, Boosts Troops’ Welfare and Security in Ogun

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, has commissioned a series of critical infrastructural projects at the 192 Battalion (Rear), Owode–Yewa in Ogun State, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to operational efficiency and personnel welfare. 

The projects, executed under the directive of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, are part of ongoing efforts to actualise his command philosophy centred on sound administration and the “Soldier First” concept.

Commissioning the facilities on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, Major General Babalola described the projects as clear evidence of the COAS’ dedication to improving the living and working conditions of troops, noting that quality infrastructure plays a vital role in boosting morale, discipline, and combat readiness.

He expressed deep appreciation to the COAS for his visionary leadership and sustained investment in personnel welfare across the Nigerian Army. The GOC also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for providing the enabling environment for such transformative initiatives to thrive.

Babalola further commended the Commanding Officer of 192 Battalion (Rear), Major S.I. Usman, for his effective supervision and prudent management of resources, which ensured the successful delivery of the projects. He urged the unit to maintain the facilities to preserve their long-term value.

In his remarks, Major Usman thanked the Chief of Army Staff for approving and executing the projects, noting that they were designed to address key operational, accommodation, and medical needs within the Battalion. He assured that the facilities would be properly utilised and maintained.

The commissioned projects include the fencing of the Battalion Arms Store, construction of a new guard house, upgrade of the Medical Reception Station, renovation of the Regimental Sergeant Major’s residence, and construction of quarters for ten corporals and below. Others are a solar-powered water point for the Support Company, five additional sentry posts to enhance perimeter security, and newly built married officers’ quarters.

Also speaking at the event, the Olu of Owode–Yewa, His Royal Majesty Oba (Rev.) Akindele Mathew Sunday, lauded the Nigerian Army for the developmental strides in the community. He particularly highlighted the medical facility as a significant boost to healthcare delivery for both military personnel and residents, while praising the cordial relationship between the Battalion and the host community.

The ceremony attracted top military officials, including the Commander, 49 Army Mapping and Survey Command, Brigadier General P. Kulawe, alongside traditional leaders, representatives of sister security agencies, members of NAOWA and NASWA, and personnel of the 192 Battalion.

The event concluded with the signing of the visitors’ book, presentation of souvenirs, and group photographs.