The Nigerian Army has appointed Major General Auwalu Mahmuda as the 56th General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2 Division, marking a new transition in the leadership of one of the Army’s ranking formations.
The formal handing and taking over ceremony was held on Monday at the Headquarters of the 2 Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, Oyo State, where Major General Mahmuda officially takes over from Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife.
Addressing officers and soldiers after assuming office, Major General Mahmuda expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the division. He described the appointment as a rare privilege and pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessor while taking the division to greater heights.
He commended Major General Nnebeife for his outstanding leadership and operational successes during his tenure, assuring personnel that he would sustain the momentum and uphold the high standards already established within the formation.
In his farewell remarks, the outgoing GOC, Major General Nnebeife, thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, who appointed him as GOC while serving as Chief of Army Staff, as well as the current Army Chief for the confidence reposed in him throughout his service.
While Speaking on his time in command since August 19, 2025, Nnebeife said the division recorded significant operational and administrative milestones, including several successful military operations.
He singled out the July 10, 2026 rescue operation as one of the division’s major achievements during his tenure.
He attributed the successes recorded by the Division formation to the dedication, professionalism and teamwork of officers and soldiers, as well as the prayers and support of members of the “Tiger Family” the nickname for the 2 Division.
As he prepares to assume duty as the pioneer commander of the newly established 10 Division in Jalingo, Taraba State, Major General Nnebeife urged officers and men of the division to extend the same loyalty and cooperation to his successor to ensure continued operational success.
The change of command comes as the Nigerian Army continues to strengthen its operational effectiveness and leadership structure in addressing security challenges across the country.
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