The Nigerian Army has appointed Major General Auwalu Mahmuda as the new General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2 Division in Ibadan, Oyo State, marking a leadership transition at one of the military’s key formations responsible for security operations across the South-West.
Mahmuda officially assumed office on Monday during a handover ceremony at the 2 Division Headquarters, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, where he succeeded Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, who has been redeployed to lead the newly established 10 Division in Jalingo, Taraba State.
His appointment comes as the 2 Division continues to play a central role in counter-insurgency, anti-kidnapping operations and other internal security missions across the region.
Speaking after taking over command, Mahmuda expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the confidence reposed in him. He described the appointment as a privilege and pledged to build on the achievements recorded under his predecessor.
“I thank the Chief of Army Staff for finding me worthy of this appointment,” Mahmuda said, assuring officers and soldiers under his command of his commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness and strengthening security across the division’s area of responsibility.
He also praised Nnebeife for his leadership and operational successes, promising to sustain the momentum and improve the division’s performance in tackling emerging security threats.
Nnebeife’s tenure was highlighted by one of the Nigerian Army’s most significant internal security operations this year—the rescue of more than 40 schoolchildren and teachers abducted from schools in Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, prompting weeks of intelligence-led operations involving multiple security agencies. Although two teachers lost their lives in captivity, the remaining victims regained their freedom after spending 56 days with their abductors. The operation, which was carried out without the payment of ransom, was widely praised by the Oyo State Government and security stakeholders as a major success in the fight against kidnapping.
With Mahmuda now in charge, the focus will be on sustaining ongoing military operations, strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and supporting civil authorities in addressing security challenges across the South-West.
