The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has commended the Nigerian Army for strengthening security operations and contributing to peace and stability in the ancient Oyo Kingdom.
The monarch made the commendation when the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, paid homage to him at the Alaafin’s Palace in Oyo on October 1, 2026, during his tour of newly established formations and units in Oyo and Osun states.
In a statement, Acting Deputy Director 2 Division Army Public Relations Lieut. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma said Oba Owoade assured the Nigerian Army of his support and pledged to do everything within his capacity to ensure that personnel of the newly established 7 Brigade enjoy a conducive stay and effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities in the kingdom.
He also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for approving the establishment of the brigade in Oyo, assuring the Army that the people of the kingdom remained hospitable and accommodating.
Earlier, Major General Mahmuda said his visit was primarily aimed at ensuring that the initial troops deployed to the new brigade were properly settled and equipped to carry out their constitutional duties.
According to him, the establishment of the brigade reflects the strategic vision of the Chief of Army Staff to expand the Nigerian Army’s operational presence and increase the number of troops on the ground to respond more effectively to contemporary security challenges.
The GOC, on behalf of the COAS, expressed appreciation to the Alaafin for his support for the troops, particularly the accommodation facility provided for personnel since their arrival in the kingdom.
During the visit, Major General Mahmuda also interacted with community leaders and assured them that the newly established formations and units had come to stay.
He said the Nigerian Army would continue to collaborate with communities to promote peace and stability, creating an enabling environment for socio-economic activities to thrive across the area.
The establishment of 7 Brigade is part of the Nigerian Army’s efforts to strengthen its operational footprint and improve its capacity to respond to emerging security threats in the region.
