Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has lauded the successes achieved under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Olusegun Adeniyi as Theatre Commander Operation Lafiya Dole (OPLD).
This commendation follows the controversy surrounding the redeployment of the army general to a research fellowship at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre(NARC) in Abuja, shortly after a video of him expressing concerns about Boko Haram insurgents possessing more ammunition than the soldiers went viral.
During a dinner held in honor of Adeniyi at the Military Command Guest House in Maiduguri on Saturday night, Buratai emphasized that the appointment of Adeniyi as the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole (OPLD) marked a pivotal moment in the fight against Boko Haram.
The COAS expressed,
“Adeniyi assumed the position at a time when most Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) were falling, and his arrival marked a turning point in Lafiya Dole’s operation.
“He consistently led from the front, displaying the exemplary field leadership attribute. I have always stressed the importance of leading by example.
“Despite the challenges and inadequacies, his achievements are undeniable. He revitalized the situation when things were deteriorating and his leadership style brought us to where we are today.
“So Adeniyi, be assured that you have left an indelible mark. Although you are leaving the Theatre, your invaluable experience will be sought and utilized.”
Maj.-Gen. Farouq Yahaya, the new Theatre Commander of OPLD, assured the COAS of his commitment to realizing the operation’s vision, mandate, and objectives.