By Ado Hassan, Sokoto
The Nigerian Army newly established 8 Division with headquarters in Sokoto, has formally taken off with the posting of Brigadier-General SO Olabanji as the pioneer General Officer Commanding (GOC).
Making the revelation today in Sokoto while on a courtesy visit to Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal at the Government House, the new GOC said all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth take off.
Olabanji stated that the bulk of the officers and men of the division were hitherto involved in internal safety operations in the North, but have now been mobilised to ensure the proper take off of the new division.
“As you may recall, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Yusuf Burutai announced the establishment of this division when he visited Sokoto earlier this year. I am to inform you that we have taken off and to solicit the support and cooperation of the people and governments under our jurisdiction,” the new GOC stated.
In his remarks, Governor Tambuwal assured the army authorities of total support to enable them achieve their objectives.
“We welcome you with open hearts. To us, the military are our friends. We will give you all the necessary support to achieve success. We owe you that much having given everything you have to protect us at all times.
“We will do everything we can to make your stay comfortable. As for the new GOC, we assure you that Sokoto is your home. Feel free to go to any part of the state anytime the need arises. We cherish our position of being the most peaceful state in the federation, and your arrival will make us strengthen that position,” he added.
