
Maj.-Gen. Eyitayo Oyinlola, the newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), has vowed to end the persistent violence in Plateau State, declaring that communities must no longer live in fear.
Oyinlola, who assumed command on Thursday during a handing-over ceremony at the Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Rukuba Barracks, Jos, and later at the OPSH Headquarters, expressed his gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for entrusting him with the role.
“I am honored to take up this responsibility and pledge to sustain the achievements of my predecessor while working tirelessly to ensure lasting peace in Plateau and other areas under our jurisdiction,” Oyinlola stated.
He emphasized the urgent need to break the cycle of violence in Plateau, stating, “The cycle of violence must end. It is unacceptable for communities to continue living in chaos and fear. We will intensify our efforts to break this pattern and ensure normalcy.”

Oyinlola reaffirmed his commitment to troop welfare, discipline, and professionalism, noting that “discipline will be encouraged, and indiscipline will be appropriately sanctioned.”
He added that collaboration with stakeholders and local communities would be critical to achieving peace.
Outgoing GOC Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, who has been redeployed to the National Defence College, Abuja, commended the officers and troops for their dedication and highlighted the complexity of Plateau’s security challenges.
“The security dynamics here are unique. Mediating in conflicts, particularly between herders and farmers, has been a critical part of our operations.
” I believe Maj.-Gen. Oyinlola has the expertise to handle these challenges effectively,” Abubakar said.
He also lauded the troops for their efforts in maintaining a crisis-free yuletide season during his tenure and urged them to remain resolute in their duties.

Abubakar expressed gratitude to the government and people of Plateau for their cooperation, calling on them to extend the same level of support to Oyinlola.
Reflecting on his time in command, Abubakar noted the importance of balancing kinetic and non-kinetic approaches in addressing the region’s unique security challenges.
The ceremony, marking a new chapter for the 3 Division and OPSH, sets high expectations for renewed efforts to restore peace and stability in Plateau and beyond.