GOC 2 Division Pays Courtesy Visit to Former Chief of Defence Staff in Ile Ife

GOC 2 Division Pays Courtesy Visit to Former Chief of Defence Staff in Ile Ife

Major General Obinna Onubogu, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, visited retired Lieutenant General Ipoola Akinrinade at his hometown in Ile Ife, Osun State, on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. General Akinrinade, who served as Chief of Army Staff (COAS) from October 1979 to April 1980 and as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) from 1980 to 1981, was a key figure during Nigeria’s Second Republic.

During the visit, Major General Onubogu expressed his respect for General Akinrinade, noting that it was an honor to meet a leader who once guided the Nigerian Army and the entire military. He added that the meeting provided an opportunity to learn from the retired general’s vast experience in national service.

General Akinrinade shared stories from his military career, highlighting his time as COAS and CDS as a unique chance to contribute to nation-building. He also expressed concern about the growing insecurity in the country but voiced confidence in the current Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, to bring the situation under control and ensure a safer Nigeria.

He praised the efforts of 2 Division in maintaining peace and security in its area of responsibility and urged Nigerians to support the military and security agencies by providing vital information. General Akinrinade emphasized that national security is a collective responsibility and called on all citizens to assist in combating the threats facing the country. He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

The visit underscored the importance of recognizing the contributions of military veterans and ensuring ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity nationwide.