The General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation Safe Haven Major General A. E Abubakar has emphasized the need to keep the morale of troops high through the provision of recreational centers, reward for excellence and gallantry. These according to him will motivate troop while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
Major General Abubakar made this known on Saturday 28th December 2024 while commissioning the Maria Abiodun Lagbaja (MAL) Recreational Park at the 3 Division Nigeria Army, Maxwel Kobe Cantonment, JJos. In his own words, he said “The establishment of this park is a testament to our dedication to improving the quality of life for our personnel and their families. Given that the nearest recreational facility is over 30 minutes drive away, the creation of this park is both timely and essential. It provides a space for relaxation, recreation, and family bonding, elements that are crucial for maintaining the morale and mental health of our dear troops.”
The GOC highlighted the efforts by the division and the expectations thereof while appreciating the Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen OO Oluyede NAM, MNI for his visionary leadership. “Over the years, we have initiated various strategies aimed at enhancing the welfare of our troops. From renovating soldiers’ accommodations to constructing new ones, and even awarding electric motorcycles to our best-performing soldiers, our focus has consistently been, on recognizing and rewarding the hard work and sacrifice of our personnel. These initiatives are a reflection of the respect and gratitude we owe to each of you for your service to our nation.”
“This is also inline with the command philosophy of our COAS, Lt Gen OO Oluyede NAM, MNI that emphasizes on sound administration through the welfare of our troops aas well as the reward and sanction system. Today thanks to the NAOWA, we turn out attention, more to the families of our dear personnel.”
While appreciating the NAOWA Chairperson 3 Division Chapter Mrs Fibishola Abubakar, the GOC 3 Division also thanked the immediate past President of NAOWA Mrs Maria Abiodun Lagbaja whose initiatives impacted the lives of troops and their families.
“I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to the Chairperson of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs. Fibishola Abubakar, for her visionary initiative in setting up this memorial recreational park in honour of the immediate past President of the NAOWA, Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja. Her leadership as the immediate past NAOWA President has significantly impacted the living standards of our troops’ families with the highest record of visits to this division during her stewardship. It is only befitting that we honour her contribution through this facility.”
“Furthermore, we remember with gratitude the late 23rd Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. TA Lagbaja Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic. Gen Lagbaja’s legacy of service and dedication to this Division in particular and Plateau State in general will forever remain indelible in our hearts.”
In concluding his remark, the GOC 3 Division Major General Abubakar stressed on the significance and importance of the park. “Today is not just about inaugurating a park; it’s about laying a solid foundation laced with memories for future endeavors that prioritize the welfare of our military families in line with the vision of our forebeareres. This facility is a legacy project, part of a series of initiatives we have launched to ensure that our personnel feel supported in their duties across the nation. It is our duty, to ensure that while our soldiers are deployed fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities, their families are nurtured and cared for, in environments that promote happiness and well-being.”
He thanked the Chief of Army Staff for his unwavering support to the dvision, especially his commitment in providing resources and enablers necessary for the division to carry out its duties effectively. General Abubakar also expressed deep appreciated for the numerous projects that 3 Division and indeed the larger Plateau community have benefitted from.
In her welcoming remark, Chairperson of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives (NAOWA) 3 Division Chapter and Wife of the GOC Mrs Fibishola Abubakar appreciated the Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen. O. O Oluyede for his unwavering support for NAOWA which her chapter has benefited from. She thanked the GOC Major General Abubakar for his firm support for NAOWA. She led guests at the event to observe a minute silence in honor of the Late 23rd Chief of Army Staff Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja.
CEO Valentino Resources Ltd, Barrister Taldas Okonkwo donated N1 Million to support the maintenance of the facility.
Highlights of the event include the tour of facilities at the Maria Abiodun Lagbaja (MAL) such as the Synthetic Footbal pitch, the Multipurpose Court, Childrens Play Ground, Bouncing Castle and many more. There was also the unveiling the Children’s Football Clubs who are to play a novelty football match by 6pm and group photograph.
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