Security
MAJOR General Olubunmi Irefin has handed over the mantle of leadership of 81 Division of the Nigerian Army to Maj. – Gen. Godwin Umelo, its new General Officer Commanding, GOC.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the outgoing GOC is expected to resume at 6 Division, while Umelo was, until his new appointment, with the Army Headquarters’ Department of Army Training and Operations.
The new GOC said that he was of the responsibilities and challenges ahead, saying that with cooperation from every quarter, such challenges would be surmounted.
“I say this is a great privilege and honour to be appointed the GOC, 81 Division, Nigerian Army. I am aware that to whom much is given, much more is expected.
“I am not unmindful of the challenges that are inherent in the Command’s responsibility, but I want to believe that with our quality cooperation including that of the press that we should be able to surmount whatever challenges that will come ahead of us,” he said.
Umelo, however, said that he wished to implore all to come on board as he extended his hand of friendship to everybody to steer the affairs of 81 Division to greater heights. The handing over ceremony was held at the headquarters of 81 Division.
Maj.- General Umelo also said that he would not go below the standard set by his predecessor-in-office, saying that by God’s grace, he would surpass the record set by Irefin.
“I want to assure you that the standard is not going to go below what you were leaving behind, and by God’s grace, we will try and see if we can make it higher.
“So, I want to challenge everyone that is here, especially, those under my command, to be ready to work. To my immediate predecessor, I want to wish you well as you leave 81 Division.
“There is no doubt that you have left your footprints on the sand of time. I know that anytime the history of 81 divisions will be written, history will judge you and judge you correctly,” he said.
The outgoing GOC also implored everyone to give the new GOC all the necessary support, saying that they were in good hands.
“He is a very competent, civil officer, and an experienced officer, he is going to name all theatres of operation, he served in Army Headquarters. With no doubt in my mind, you are in a good hand.
“And I will want to appeal to you to extend the same cooperation you gave me to him,” he said.
Irefin while appreciating God’s faithfulness while he served in the Division also commended the Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
“Let me use this opportunity to thank the almighty God, today makes it one year because I took over on July 22, 2019. Today, I am equally handing over to a very competent successor.
“I want to thank the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for the privilege and for all the supported I enjoyed during my time of duty here,” he said. (NAN)
– Jul. 22, 2020 @ 18:09 GMT |
Tags: 81 Division of Nigerian Army Maj.-Gen. Umelo assumes office as new GOC
