Brig.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, has assumed office as the Acting General Officer Commanding 8 Division of the Nigerian Army Sokoto.

This is contained in a statement by the division’s spokesperson, Lt.-Col. Ibrahim Shittu, on Friday in Sokoto.

Mr Shittu said Mr Ajose took over from his predecessor, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, posted to the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre as Director, Military Technology.

He said the acting GOC would also serve as the Commander, Joint Task Force Northwest Operation Hadarin  Daji (JTF NW OPHD).

According to him, during the handover, the former GOC appreciated the officers and soldiers of the division for their unalloyed cooperation and support during his tenure and charged them to remain committed and disciplined.

Mr Mutkut said the division’s area of responsibilities were not strange to his successor, being a one-time brigade commander.

He expressed confidence in Ajose’s capability to take the division to greater heights.

Responding, Mr Ajose commended Mr Mutkut for the successful record of achievements and sought for his continuous guidance.

The new acting GOC assured of his readiness to work with officers and soldiers towards ensuring lasting peace and stability within the division’s area of responsibilities.

“I wish the former GOC good luck in his new appointment. I want to charge officers and soldiers to remain loyal to constituted authority and ensure adequate protection of lives and property. I promise to build on what my predecessor has done by ensuring more dedication and focus toward achieving the overall mandate of the Nigerian Army,” Mr Ajose said.

The new GOC stressed the need for maintaining synergy with other services and security agencies in line with the Chief of Army Staff philosophy towards enhancing national security.

(NAN)