By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has praised the officers and soldiers of 130 Battalion and 341 Artillery Regiment, Ogoja, Cross River State, for their resilience and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation. He urged them to continue making sacrifices in the service of national security.
In a statement signed by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army Chief gave the commendation on Tuesday, 9 September 2025, during an operational visit to Godwin Ally Barracks, Ogoja. The visit formed part of his ongoing assessment tour of Nigerian Army formations and units under the 82 Division’s Area of Operational Responsibility.
During the visit, General Oluyede inspected key facilities, interacted directly with troops, and expressed appreciation for their sacrifices despite the demanding nature of current security operations. He assured them that their welfare remained a top priority under his leadership.
Demonstrating his passion for education, the COAS disclosed that significant investments were being channelled into revamping schools in military barracks to ensure soldiers’ children receive quality education. He further directed the immediate renovation of dilapidated accommodation within the barracks to improve the living conditions of personnel and their families.
Reiterating his commitment to the welfare of troops, General Oluyede highlighted that the recent increase in Ration Cash Allowance has already enabled commanders to provide better feeding for soldiers. He urged the troops to reciprocate this gesture by giving their utmost in the discharge of their duties. He also revealed that plans were underway to supply all personnel with new sets of uniforms and essential military kits, measures he said were designed to standardise operational readiness, boost morale, and entrench his “Soldiers First” mantra.
The Army Chief charged the troops to uphold discipline and professionalism at all times, while maintaining strong synergy with sister security agencies and host communities. Such collaboration, he stressed, was vital to ensuring lasting peace and stability in Cross River and the wider region.
General Oluyede’s visit underscored his resolve to combine operational effectiveness with improved welfare for personnel, while reinforcing the Nigerian Army’s central role in tackling evolving security challenges across the country.
