In a bid to consolidate security gains and foster harmonious coexistence, the outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General AE Abubakar, hosted an expanded stakeholders’ engagement on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. The event, held at the 3 Division Headquarters in Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, focused on reflecting on security achievements and preparing for a smooth leadership transition.
Themed “Consolidation on Security Gains for a Harmonious Coexistence in 2025,” the engagement brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Plateau State Government, religious and traditional leaders, local government representatives, security agency heads, community leaders, and other critical partners.
In his address, Major General Abubakar reflected on his tenure and the collective efforts of stakeholders in improving security in Plateau State and the joint operational area. He highlighted the milestones achieved during his command, including a reduction in hostilities, increased farming and herding activities, and effective conflict de-escalation through both kinetic and non-kinetic interventions.
“Peace is not only achieved through the barriers of arms but through dialogue, understanding, and collaboration,” General Abubakar emphasized. He commended the establishment of neighborhood watch groups, the implementation of community-impact projects, and the use of sports to unite youths across divides as key strategies that contributed to security improvements.
While acknowledging the progress made, the outgoing GOC noted lingering security challenges and urged stakeholders to sustain their collective efforts to address criminalities and prevent future escalations. He called for unwavering support for the incoming GOC to ensure the continuity of peacebuilding initiatives.
“I implore you to extend the same cooperation and dedication to the incoming General Officer Commanding 3 Division. Our successes are a result of teamwork, and I am confident my successor will build on the solid foundation we have laid together,” he said.
Major General Abubakar introduced his successor, Major General Eyitayo Oyinlola, to the stakeholders and expressed optimism in his ability to lead effectively.
In his remarks, Major General Oyinlola expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to sustain and improve upon the achievements of his predecessor. “The cycle of violence in Plateau State must be broken,” he stated, stressing the need for unity, collaboration, and the promotion of peaceful coexistence.
“I assure you of an open-door policy and fairness in addressing security matters. Together, we can achieve lasting peace and create a secure environment for development,” Major General Oyinlola added.
The event concluded with goodwill messages from stakeholders who congratulated Major General Abubakar on his successful tenure and welcomed Major General Oyinlola. The official handing-over ceremony is scheduled to take place within the next few hours as Major General Abubakar moves on to other responsibilities after 18 months in command.
The expanded engagement reinforced the importance of collective action in ensuring the security and stability of Plateau State and its environs. 
