Major General Mahmuda Takes Over As 56th GOC of 2Division
…New commander pledges to build on predecessor’s achievements as Nnebeife bows out to lead newly created 10 Division
Major General Auwalu Mahmuda has officially assumed duty as the 56th General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2 Division, Nigerian Army, succeeding Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife.
The handing and taking over ceremony took place on Monday at the Headquarters of the 2 Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, marking a new leadership transition for one of the Nigerian Army’s premier divisions.
Speaking after taking over command, Major General Mahmuda expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the confidence reposed in him through the appointment.
The new GOC described the opportunity to lead the 2 Division as a rare privilege and pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessor while working to further strengthen the division’s operational effectiveness.
He commended the immediate past GOC, Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife, for his outstanding leadership and numerous accomplishments, assuring officers and soldiers that he would sustain the momentum and uphold the division’s proud tradition.
In his farewell remarks, Major General Nnebeife thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, who appointed him as GOC while serving as Chief of Army Staff, and also appreciated the current Army Chief for his continued confidence in him.
Major General Nnebeife, who assumed command of the division on August 19, 2025, said the formation recorded significant operational successes during his tenure, including several successful military operations.
He highlighted the rescue operation carried out on July 10, 2026, as one of the division’s major achievements, attributing the successes to the dedication of officers and soldiers, as well as the support and prayers of personnel across the division.
The outgoing GOC also expressed appreciation to commanders and staff officers for their cooperation, noting that their commitment contributed immensely to the division’s accomplishments.
Major General Nnebeife has now been appointed to head the newly established 10 Division of the Nigerian Army in Jalingo, Taraba State, and pledged to remain a worthy ambassador of the 2 Division.
He urged officers and soldiers to extend the same level of loyalty, dedication, and support to his successor to enable the division sustain its operational successes and continue fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.
