The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has commended the Nigerian Army for its efforts to strengthen security and promote stability in Oyo Kingdom.
The monarch gave the commendation when the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, paid homage to him at his palace in Oyo during a tour of newly established Army formations and units.
Oba Owoade welcomed the military’s increased presence in the kingdom and pledged the support of the traditional institution and local community for the newly established 7 Brigade.
The visit formed part of efforts to ensure that the new military formation was properly established and positioned to carry out its responsibilities.
Alaafin pledges support for 7 Brigade
During the meeting, the monarch expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for approving the establishment of the brigade in Oyo.
He said the additional military presence could strengthen security in the area and assured the Army that he would work to provide a conducive environment for personnel serving in the kingdom.
Oba Owoade also described the people of Oyo as hospitable and accommodating, expressing confidence that cooperation between the military and local communities would support peace and stability.
His pledge underscores the role traditional institutions can play in facilitating communication between security agencies and residents.
Army outlines purpose of new formation
Major General Mahmuda said the visit was intended in part to ensure that troops initially deployed to the new brigade had settled properly and could discharge their constitutional responsibilities effectively.
According to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations at 2 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, the brigade forms part of the Army’s broader strategy to expand its presence and improve its response to contemporary security challenges.
The GOC also interacted with community leaders and assured them that the newly established formations and units would remain in the area.
Community cooperation remains important
Security operations often depend not only on troop deployments but also on cooperation between security agencies, traditional rulers, local authorities and residents.
Community engagement can help improve communication, encourage the reporting of suspicious activities and strengthen trust between civilians and security personnel.
The establishment of the 7 Brigade represents an expansion of the Army’s presence in Oyo. Its practical impact will depend on operational deployment, coordination with other security agencies and its ability to respond to threats affecting the kingdom and surrounding communities.