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MAJOR GENERAL OYINLOLA TAKES COMMAND AS 43RD GOC 3 DIVISION
MAJOR GENERAL OYINLOLA TAKES COMMAND AS 43RD GOC 3 DIVISION
…Urges Holistic Approach to Combat Crime in Plateau State
A significant milestone was achieved at the Headquarters 3 Division Nigerian Army as Major General Eyitayo Oyinlola officially assumed command as the 43rd General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the division. The ceremonial transition, which took place at the GOC’s Conference Room in Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, on Thursday 23 January 2025, featured senior military officials, Brigade Commanders, and dignitaries from various sectors, underscoring the importance of this leadership change in the region’s complex security landscape.
In his valedictory address, the outgoing GOC, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed Major General Oyinlola and highlighted the intricate nature of security challenges in Plateau State. “The security situation here is both complex and dynamic; it demands a multi-faceted strategy that includes both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches,” he stated. General Abubakar emphasized the necessity of not only engaging in combat operations against criminality and banditry but also mediating conflicts arising between agricultural communities, such as farmers and herders. “The operations in this region are inherently people-centric,” he remarked, expressing confidence in Major General Oyinlola’s ability to navigate these challenges effectively.
Major General Abubakar took the opportunity to express gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, NAM, for the trust placed in him during his tenure and acknowledged the invaluable support received from the government and security agencies in Plateau State. “Your collaboration has been instrumental in our efforts to ensure safety and security in the region. I urge you all to extend the same level of support to my successor,” he implored, reinforcing the importance of unity among security stakeholders.
In turn, Major General Oyinlola lauded his predecessor for his dedication and commitment to peace in Plateau State. “I intend to build upon the solid foundation laid by Major General Abubakar. The standards will not only be maintained but indeed improved upon,” he asserted, calling for an enhanced collaborative effort among all security stakeholders in the state to achieve lasting peace. By stressing the importance of unity and shared objectives, the new GOC signaled his intent to foster an inclusive approach to addressing security issues.
The transition ceremony was marked by several symbolic events, including the signing of handing and taking over notes, the presentation of the 3 Division insignia of command to the outgoing GOC, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion. The ceremonial quarter guard drills added to the significance of this historic event, which is expected to set the tone for the new leadership era under Major General Oyinlola.
The need for a holistic approach to combat the pervasive threats of criminal activity and insecurity in Plateau State has never been more pressing. As communities grapple with the realities of banditry and inter-communal conflicts, the call for innovative strategies and enhanced collaboration among all stakeholders becomes paramount. Major General Oyinlola’s commitment to picking up from where his predecessor left off sets a hopeful tone for the region.
The leadership transition at the 3 Division Nigerian Army represents not only a change in command but also a renewed commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property in Plateau State.
MAJOR GENERAL OYINLOLA TAKES COMMAND AS 43RD GOC 3 DIVISION
Russia Strengthens Strategic Ties with Sahel States Amid Geopolitical Shifts
By: Zagazola Makama
Russia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, as Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hosted his counterparts from the three Sahel states in Moscow. The high-level meeting signals deepening cooperation in security, economic development, and diplomatic coordination, amid shifting global alliances and the growing influence of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
The discussions, held in a quadrilateral format for the first time, focused on enhancing military collaboration, investment opportunities, and regional security strategies. Lavrov welcomed the delegation, emphasizing Russia’s support for the sovereignty of the three nations as they seek to assert independence in their policymaking and security frameworks.
“We appreciate the determination of your countries to build a new regional security architecture based on your own strengths while remaining open to mutually beneficial cooperation,” Lavrov said. He commended the “dynamic integration” efforts within the AES and highlighted ongoing projects in trade, finance, infrastructure, and human resource development.
The visit comes amid rising geopolitical tensions and the Sahel states’ increasing shift away from Western partnerships. Following military takeovers in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, the three countries have strengthened ties with Russia, particularly in military cooperation and counterterrorism efforts. They have also distanced themselves from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), forming the AES as a regional bloc focused on collective security and economic cooperation.
Lavrov noted that Russia is ready to support the AES beyond bilateral engagements, stating that collaboration would extend to international platforms, including the Russia-Africa Forum. The next ministerial meeting of the forum is expected to take place in Africa later this year, ahead of the 2026 Russia-Africa Summit.
In his remarks, Mali’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening ties with Russia, underscoring the importance of strategic alliances in addressing security and development challenges.
The meeting marks a new phase in Russia’s engagement with Africa, particularly in regions seeking alternative partnerships. As the global political landscape evolves, the AES-Russia partnership is expected to influence security dynamics and economic cooperation in the Sahel and beyond.
Russia Strengthens Strategic Ties with Sahel States Amid Geopolitical Shifts
Man Killed in Accidental Shooting During Joint Security Operation in Adamawa
By: Zagazola Makama
A tragic incident occurred on April 3, 2025, during a joint security operation in Girei Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State.
The operation, which involved personnel from the Police, Military, Department of State Security Services (DSS), and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), aimed to raid criminal hideouts in the area.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that during the operation, one of the security personnel accidentally discharged their firearm, striking 21-year-old Bara Adamu of Wuro Bulama, Girei LGA.
The victim was immediately rushed to Specialist Hospital for medical attention but was sadly confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.
Man Killed in Accidental Shooting During Joint Security Operation in Adamawa
Armed Bandits Kill One in Attack on Commercial Vehicle in Sokoto
By: Zagazola Makama
On April 3, 2025, at approximately 1130 hours, a group of armed bandits riding motorcycles, opened fire on a commercial vehicle traveling from Kebbi to Sokoto.
The attack resulted in the death of one Dan Gande Usman, who was shot in the head. The victim succumbed to his injuries while being transported to the hospital.
In response to the attack, troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA were deployed to the area to ensure sanity.
Armed Bandits Kill One in Attack on Commercial Vehicle in Sokoto
Russia Strengthens Strategic Ties with Sahel States Amid Geopolitical Shifts
Man Killed in Accidental Shooting During Joint Security Operation in Adamawa
Armed Bandits Kill One in Attack on Commercial Vehicle in Sokoto
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