Kwara South Gets Major Military Upgrade as FG Elevates Ilemona FOB to Artillery Regiment
The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the proactive initiatives of the Chief of Army Staff and the unwavering support of the Governor of Kwara State, has approved the upgrade of the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Ilemona, in Oyun Local Government Area to an Artillery Regiment (Battalion). This strategic security intervention is aimed at preventing the infiltration of criminal elements, enhancing military operations, and providing additional security coverage across Kwara South and neighbouring communities.
The upgraded military formation is expected to reinforce the security architecture of Oyun and Offa Local Government Areas, while also extending effective security coverage to boundary communities in Osun State, including Ila Odo, Kontaijabe, Okuku, Ago Ayoo, Opete, Faaji, Igbaye, and other surrounding settlements. The development is a significant step toward safeguarding lives and property, promoting peace, and creating an enabling environment for economic and social development.
As part of the implementation process, a high-powered delegation led by Major General O.D. Williams, alongside representatives of the Kwara State Governor, the Chairman of the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (GIS), and the Surveyor General of Kwara State, paid an inspection visit to the proposed site in Ilemona, Oyun Local Government Area.
The delegation was warmly received by the Executive Chairman of Oyun Local Government, Hon. Engr. Kamar olarewaju Akanbi; the member representing Odo-Ogun Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon Yusuff Atóyèbí Musa; Ilemona progressive descendant union Chairman Hon. Richard Agboola , the Personal Assistant to Kabiesi Elemona of ilemona land Alh. Abdulrahman Rabiu Babge and the Traditional Council of the Elemona of Ilemona, who expressed profound appreciation and excitement over the landmark development.
Speaking during the inspection, stakeholders described the upgrade as a timely and strategic intervention that will significantly strengthen security operations, improve intelligence gathering, enhance rapid military response to emerging threats, and further consolidate peace across the region.
The establishment of the Artillery Regiment underscores the Federal Government’s commitment under the administration of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu , GCFR, to strengthening national security and ensuring that every part of the country enjoys adequate protection against criminal activities.
Residents of Ilemona and neighbouring communities have welcomed the development with great enthusiasm, expressing optimism that the enhanced military presence will boost public confidence, stimulate economic activities, and foster sustainable development throughout Kwara South and its adjoining communities.
Comr. AbdulRauf Abdullahi Opeyemi
Senior special assistant on media and publicity to Kabiesi Elemona of ilemona land.
