The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, NAM, on Tuesday, 2 June 2026, commissioned the newly constructed 35 Artillery Brigade Sports Complex at Alamala Barracks, Abeokuta, Ogun State, and charged troops to ensure its proper maintenance and optimal utilization for the benefit of personnel and future generations.
A statement signed by Major Idereghi Samuel Akari assistant director army public relations,33 artillery brigade Abeokuta said the sports complex, which comprises a modern volleyball court, basketball court and football pitch was commissioned alongside the remodeled Operations Room of the Brigade. The COAS also flagged off Operation Bush-to-Palm Plantation, during which dignitaries planted palm trees as part of efforts to promote environmental sustainability within the barracks.
Represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army(NA), Major General Adebayo Babalola, the COAS commended the outgoing Commander 35 Artillery Brigade and Project Executor, Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba for initiating projects that directly impact the welfare of soldiers, their families and communities within the Barracks.
Lieutenant General Shaibu noted that the projects align with the Nigerian Army’s Soldier First concept and reflect sound administrative leadership. He expressed satisfaction with the range of projects executed, describing them as initiatives that enhance troop welfare, promote physical fitness, and improve the operational environment.
The Army Chief emphasized the importance of maintaining the newly commissioned facilities and assured that he would continue to monitor their utilization to ensure they remain beneficial to the Nigerian Army long after the tenure of the Project Executor.
He further observed that sports development and environmental conservation are critical components of sound administration, noting that the sports complex would serve as a venue for various Nigerian Army sporting activities and competitions. According to him, the facility would significantly reduce future expenditure associated with hosting sporting events and contribute to the physical and mental well-being of personnel.
The COAS also praised Brigadier General Nwamba for his commitment, discipline and dedication to duty, describing the projects as a testament to purposeful leadership and selfless service.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army under his leadership to supporting sports, troops welfare, infrastructure development and regimental growth across formations and units nationwide.
Speaking at the event, the Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Honourable Wasiu Isiaka, who represented the Governor of Ogun State, Prince (Dr) Dapo Abiodun, CON, lauded the Nigerian Army for its continued contributions to peace, security and community development. He stated that the Ogun State Government remains committed to fostering strategic partnerships that promote security, youth development, community advancement and economic prosperity.
He added that Governor Abiodun deeply values the enduring relationship between the Armed Forces and the people of Ogun State and recognizes the vital role military personnel play in safeguarding peace, stability and national unity.
The Commissioner expressed delight at the establishment of the multi-purpose sports complex, describing sports as one of the most effective tools for promoting discipline, teamwork, leadership, resilience and social cohesion.
“Sports transcend barriers, unite communities, and provide opportunities for talent discovery and personal development. This facility will undoubtedly contribute to the development of military personnel and youths within the community,” he stated.
The event attracted several distinguished personalities, including the Ogun State Sports Ambassador, Chief Segun Odegbami, senior retired military officers, captains of industry, community leaders and other stakeholders.
