The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General
Taoreed Lagbaja, inaugurated several Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC)
projects in Okuku, Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State on Tuesday,
September 10, 2024. The projects were undertaken in honor of Major General
Eyitayo Folusho Oyinlola as part of the COAS Special Civil-Military Cooperation
Intervention initiative, which supports communities where senior officers, who
have attained the prestigious rank of Major General, hail from.
According to the statement released by the Director
Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu said “the COAS inaugurated
several completed projects, including the renovated and furnished examination
hall at Odo Otin Grammar School, the donation of 200 tables and chairs, the
refurbishment of the school’s entry and exit gates, and the installation of a
500 KVA transformer along with the expansion of electrification at the Odo-Igbo
Ogo Oluwa Community. After the commissioning, Lt Gen Lagbaja expressed his
delight in officially handing over these projects to the peace-loving people of
Okuku. He commended Major General Oyinlola for identifying and addressing key
community needs through these initiatives.
“The COAS reiterated that the Nigerian Army is
dedicated to serving the people and is committed to ensuring peace, security,
unity, and the well-being of all Nigerians. He emphasized that the security and
progress of the nation depend on cooperation among all stakeholders, pointing
out that military efforts alone cannot solve the country’s security challenges.
He called on all well-meaning Nigerians to continue supporting and working with
the military to overcome these challenges.
“During his visit to the Palace of the Olokuku of
Okuku, His Royal Highness, Oba Abioye Oyebode Oluronke II, Lt Gen Lagbaja
emphasized that the Nigerian Army is committed to fostering stronger relations
with civilian populations. He explained that CIMIC projects aim to bridge the
gap between the military and the public, promoting peaceful coexistence and
garnering support for ongoing efforts to address security challenges across the
country. The Olokuku expressed his gratitude, noting that this was the first
time any Chief of Army Staff had visited the ancient town. He thanked Lt Gen
Lagbaja for honoring Okuku’s son, Major General Oyinlola, and the community
through these impactful projects.
“Major General Funsho Oyinlola, the project
executor, and Major General Nosakhare Ugbo, Chief of Civil-Military Relations,
both expressed their appreciation to the COAS for sponsoring the projects and
ensuring the continuation of this commendable initiative. They stressed that
the projects would have a meaningful impact on the lives of the people, and
urged the community to maintain and make good use of the facilities.
“Goodwill messages were delivered by Osun State
Governor, Senator Ademola Jackson Adeleke, represented by Deputy Governor
Prince Kola Adewusi, and former Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye
Oyinlola. Additionally, the Principal of Odo Otin Grammar School, Mrs Monisola
Onibokun, thanked the COAS on behalf of the school and pledged to maintain the
facilities provided by the Nigerian Army.
“The event was attended by key figures, including
Principal Staff Officers from Defence and Army Headquarters, community leaders,
commanders, senior officers, and well-wishers.”