In a ceremony held on Saturday, July 8, 2023, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar assumed command as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division, located at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Rukuba. Gen. Abubakar also took on the role of Commander for Operation Safe Haven Jos. During the ceremony, he emphasized the importance of leveraging the division’s capabilities in training, equipment, and teamwork to effectively combat any threats.

Gen. Abubakar arrived at the 3 Division headquarters following his deployment by the Chief of Army Staff. Expressing his commitment, he stated his intention to utilize his experience and training, calling for unified efforts to make the division a symbol of excellence. He assured his willingness to tackle the challenges ahead, working alongside the officers and soldiers of the division. Gen. Abubakar also emphasized his intention to collaborate with sister agencies, stakeholders, government bodies, and traditional institutions for collective success.

“I want to reiterate my commitment to build upon the achievements of the outgoing GOC. I am fully aware of the challenges and responsibilities that lie ahead, and I assure you that I am prepared to confront them head-on, together with the officers and soldiers of this division,” stated Major General Abubakar.

In line with the briefing received from the outgoing GOC, Gen. Abubakar outlined his vision, which revolves around three core principles: readiness, synergy, and excellence. He aligned this vision with the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, aiming to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force, capable of fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities in a joint environment.

Gen. Abubakar urged the soldiers to remain resilient, focused, resolute, and committed to achieving the division’s mandate of protecting the nation, its citizens, and their lives and properties, particularly in Plateau State.

The outgoing General Officer Commanding, Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, commenced his farewell activities by commissioning the newly remodeled duty standby room and Canteen, which were designed to cater to the needs of the standby troops during emergencies. He then conducted a brief monitoring visit to ongoing projects within the Division.

Gen. Ibrahim proceeded to the parade field at Rukuba Barrack to bid farewell to the troops as he prepared to serve at the Army headquarters as the new Chief of Policy and Plans. In his address, he emphasized the importance of discipline, trustworthiness, professionalism, sincerity, and loyalty to the army, which are essential for maintaining high standards of conduct. He encouraged the soldiers to take care of the division’s facilities and highlighted the upgraded school facilities within the barracks, which can provide quality education for their children.

Expressing his gratitude, Gen. Ibrahim commended the officers and soldiers of the 3 Division for their support, even during his visits to other outstations. He also assured them of his availability for further cooperation, emphasizing that his doors and phone lines remain open.

A formal presentation and handover ceremony were conducted at the Headquarters of Operation Safe Haven, where the new commandant met with other principal officers of the command.