The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, has charged troops of the newly established 321 Artillery Regiment in Iseyin, Oyo State, to take decisive action against security threats and prevent criminal elements from establishing a foothold in the area.
Mahmuda gave the directive during his maiden operational visit to the regiment’s temporary location on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
According to a statement issued on Sunday in Ibadan by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 2 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the GOC urged the soldiers to remain vigilant, uphold professional standards and effectively discharge their responsibilities within their area of responsibility.
He particularly highlighted the security challenges associated with the regiment’s proximity to the Old Oyo National Park, stressing the need for proactive operational measures to safeguard surrounding communities.
Mahmuda said the troops must confront security challenges decisively while maintaining discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
He further directed the soldiers to adopt all necessary operational strategies to prevent criminal groups from gaining ground in their area of responsibility and protect the reputation of the Nigerian Army.
The GOC also emphasised the importance of effective artillery operations, urging the personnel to remain committed to their assigned military responsibilities.
He said, “Let me, again, urge you all to perform your artillery role effectively. I want to also charge you to ensure you maintain cordial relationships with your host community.”
Mahmuda expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for expanding the Nigerian Army’s operational capacity, noting that the establishment of additional formations would strengthen the military’s ability to respond to evolving security challenges across the country.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the GOC to interact with troops deployed to various locations within the division’s area of responsibility and assess their readiness to carry out assigned duties.
The operational engagement underscores the importance of effective military deployment, operational preparedness and cooperation between security personnel and host communities in addressing security concerns in Oyo State.
The newly established 321 Artillery Regiment is expected to contribute to the Nigerian Army’s efforts to strengthen security operations in Iseyin and surrounding areas.
