ABUJA – Maj Gen EF Oyinlola has officially assumed command of the Special Task Force, Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), headquartered in Jos, Plateau State.
This followed a formal handing and taking over ceremony held on Tuesday, where he succeeded Maj Gen AE Abubakar, who has been redeployed as Deputy Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja.
During the ceremony, Maj Gen Abubakar expressed gratitude to the OPSH personnel for their dedication and support during his tenure. He also commended critical stakeholders for their contributions to improved security and stability in the operation’s Area of Responsibility.
“I encourage you all to support the incoming commander to build on the operational gains we have achieved,” Abubakar said in his parting remarks.
In his address, Maj Gen Oyinlola praised his predecessor for repositioning the task force and achieving significant progress. He pledged his commitment to fostering sound administration and prioritizing the welfare of troops, with a focus on achieving lasting peace in the region.
“My command philosophy will focus on enhancing discipline, dedication, and professionalism to end the cycle of violence in our Joint Operations Area,” Oyinlola stated.
The ceremony included the signing of the handing and taking over notes, the symbolic transfer of the OPSH command insignia, troop addresses, a quarter guard ceremony, the changing of the operation’s flag, and a group photograph.
Operation SAFE HAVEN is tasked with restoring peace and stability across Plateau and parts of Bauchi and Kaduna States, focusing on curbing violence and fostering harmony in the region. Maj Gen Oyinlola’s leadership is expected to build on existing gains and drive further progress toward sustainable security.