Headquarters 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 2 Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on Monday hosted a colourful and emotionally charged send-forth ceremony in honour of the outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, and Commander Sector 2 OPFY, Major General Ibikunle Ademola Ajose, alongside other posted-out senior officers.
The ceremony took place at the Eagle Officers’ Mess, Giginya Barracks, Sokoto.
In a press statement, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, stated that the event was organised to celebrate the distinguished service and impactful leadership of the outgoing GOC.
In his farewell address, Major General Ajose expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve as the 10th GOC of the Division, describing the appointment as one of the greatest honours of his military career.
He commended officers and soldiers for their loyalty, professionalism, discipline and unwavering commitment to duty, noting their resilience in the face of operational challenges.
“Together, we confronted challenges, upheld our mandate and served our nation with courage and integrity. Your dedication to the ideals of the Nigerian Army has been truly commendable,” he said.
The outgoing GOC expressed confidence in the leadership, capacity and fighting spirit of the Division, urging personnel to remain united, resolute and committed to upholding the traditions and values of the Nigerian Army. He noted that he was leaving the Division with immense pride in the collective achievements recorded during his tenure.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Commander, 8 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Abdulmalik Mohammed, described Major General Ajose as a distinguished leader, mentor and father figure.
He highlighted the GOC’s transformational impact since assuming command in July 2024, attributing the Division’s enhanced operational effectiveness to his proactive leadership style and strategic foresight.
According to Brigadier General Mohammed, Major General Ajose introduced a leadership approach that was not only responsive but anticipatory, positioning the Division to stay ahead of emerging security challenges. He added that the GOC’s legacy transcends infrastructural improvements and operational readiness, serving as a model of leadership for future generations.
The ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Sokoto State Governor, the Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State, and the Director of the Department of State Services in the state. Members of the Nigerian Bar Association, Sokoto Branch, as well as other distinguished guests, were also in attendance.
Highlights of the event included cultural dance performances showcasing the rich heritage of the region, a grand dinner in honour of the outgoing GOC and other posted-out officers, presentation of certificates of service and gifts, and group photographs that captured the camaraderie and esprit de corps of the occasion.
