The General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General AE Abubakar, officially inaugurated the Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja Recreational Park at the Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, Plateau State, on Saturday.
According to a statement published on the Nigerian Army’s website on Sunday, the park is dedicated to Mariya Lagbaja, the immediate past president of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), in recognition of her “outstanding contributions to the welfare of officers, soldiers, and their families, particularly within the 3 Division.”
The park, located within the barracks, features state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance the quality of life for residents. These include a swimming pool, a 5-a-side synthetic football pitch, trampolines, bouncy castles, electric merry-go-round trains, bicycles, swings, and battery-powered bikes, all of which are floodlit for evening use.
Speaking at the ceremony, Major General Abubakar highlighted the significance of the facility, stating it serves both as a recreational hub and a tribute to the late Lt. Gen. TA Lagbaja, the 23rd Chief of Army Staff.
“General Lagbaja was known for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the military community. This park is a testament to his legacy of service and dedication,” he said.
The GOC also emphasized the park’s role in fostering community bonds, encouraging physical activity, and providing leisure opportunities for soldiers and their families.
“This is not just a recreational space; it is a symbol of our commitment to the well-being of our troops and their loved ones. I encourage everyone to use this facility and create cherished memories here,” Major General Abubakar added.
Expressing gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. OO Oluyede, for his support, Abubakar remarked, “This milestone reflects the collective efforts of individuals dedicated to improving the lives of our personnel. We are thankful to the Chief of Army Staff for providing the resources that made this possible.”
The unveiling ceremony included a guided tour of the park, the commissioning of various recreational installations, and a novelty football match between teams from NAOWA and NASWA, creating a festive atmosphere for the barracks community.
