Chinweuba Okechukwu
The General Officer Commanding 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Adebayo Babalola, has charged newly trained military drivers to uphold discipline, responsibility and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of Driver Basic Course 1/26 in Lagos, the GOC stressed that the role of military drivers goes beyond operating vehicles, noting that it requires alertness, integrity and strict adherence to safety standards.
The ceremony, held at the 75 Supply and Transport Brigade in Victoria Island, marked the successful completion of intensive training for soldiers drawn from units across the Division’s operational area.
Represented by the Division Training Officer, Brigadier General HM Bello, Babalola emphasised the importance of obeying speed limits, understanding road signs and maintaining composure under operational pressure.
He warned that negligence on the road could have grave consequences for military operations, national security and public safety, urging the graduates to reflect the core values of the Nigerian Army at all times.
The GOC noted that the training programme was designed to bridge the gap in the number of qualified drivers within the Division, while enhancing operational efficiency and mobility.
He commended the instructors and staff of the 75 Supply and Transport Brigade for their commitment to delivering both practical and theoretical knowledge to the trainees.
Babalola further urged the graduates to apply the skills acquired during the course, stressing that competence and discipline must remain their guiding principles in the field.
In his welcome address, the Acting Commander of the Brigade, Colonel IM Akosim, praised the participants for their dedication and discipline throughout the training period.
A total of 43 personnel, who commenced the course earlier in the year, successfully completed the programme, reinforcing the Division’s capacity to deliver on its operational mandate.