By Okosun Dennis
The large expanse of space by the seaside at the Camel Officers’ Mess, 65 Battalion Bonny Cantonment, Victoria Island, Lagos was the place, and the cozy ambiance set an unforgettable evening to remember.
As early as 7 p.m., guests had started streaming in, and the massive speakers and other musical instruments provided by the Nigerian Navy define an evening of dance, eating, and lavish commendations.
At about 8:15 p.m., the Master of Ceremonies began to announce the names of the guests and the reason for the gathering. Amazingly, no one was left in doubt that it was, indeed, a time to remember.
The cool and airy breeze from the sea calms the atmosphere as the gorgeously dressed guests, relax in their seats, networked and exchanged pleasantries.
The occasion was the send-forth party organised by 65 Battalion, Nigerian Army for their ebullient Commanding Officer, Lt Col Mohammed Lawal, who has been posted to 2nd Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Oyo State.
In his remarks, Lt Col Mohammed Lawal thanked officers and soldiers of the battalion for standing behind him to have had a remarkable, successful tenure within the last 14 months as the Commanding Officer.
He explained that shortly after he assumed duty and had a tour of his Areas of Responsibility, in addition to the infrastructural needs of the battalion, he knew that it required enormous transformation hence he challenged himself which galvanized into the gamut of successes he achieved during his stint in the battalion.
“When I reported here on the 15th of August 2022, I knew it was an enormous challenge as the battalion needed a huge transformation. I challenged myself because the battalion needed huge transformations.
“I started from the Company office, Parade ground, Quarter Guards, saluting Diaz, car park, the battalion headquarters and renovated the blocks to my taste and standards. The Officers’ Mess wasn’t left out as lots of reconstruction took place including the sit-out, fence, and lots more.
“These happened with the kind support of people sitting on the high table and the Mess Chairman, who was in the engine room.
“I am so honoured with this farewell party. Importantly, I want to say that before I was posted here, I had never served in Lagos before. Now, I will remain part of the battalion and Lagos state.
“With the guidance of senior officers, I achieved a lot. Therefore, I thanked everybody who assisted me in succeeding during my command, especially Lt Col Abdulrahman, now the Commanding Officer of 1 Battalion, Chibok.
“I crave your indulgence and urge you present here, to extend the same assistance and support to the incoming Commanding Officer, Lt Col Mohammed Marwa, who is my senior, mentor and a friend. We knew as 2nd Lieutenant but never thought of it that one day, he would take over from me as a Battalion Commander.
“I am happy handing over 65 Battalion to a capable and reliable hand and he will continue and do better in this battalion,” Lt Col Lawal reiterated.
However, on his part as the incoming Commanding Officer, Lt Col Mohammed Marwa applauded the outgoing C.O for his astonishing achievements describing him as an “exemplary and astute officer.”
However, in keeping with the service tradition of the Nigerian Army, he presented a souvenir to him on behalf of the officers and soldiers of the battalion.
While commending Lt Col Lawal for his comradeship and open door policy, the Mess Chairman, Mr Uyi appreciated the invaluable contributions he rendered, especially by turning the Camel Officers’ Mess into a desirable environment that has become a rendezvous for robust relaxation, networking, and reconnecting with one another.
According to him, “No doubt, the C.O is a unique personality, God-fearing and friendly; who has positively touched lives among us.
“He who waters, will reap abundantly and the Grace of God will be with you in your new place of posting and reap abundantly, Mr Uyi concluded his commendation.
Without any dull moment, the live band with their sonorous voices, entertained the guests with scintillating songs.
High points were the presentation of gifts from the Nigerian Ports Authority, Landmark Event Centre, Chairman and Honourable Members of the Camel Officers’ Mess, and private individuals.
Prior to the send-forth party, a series of events that took place included a Novelty Match, Free Medical and Heart Check-up, a Boat Cruise to Tarkuwabe, and Induction of New Honourary members of 65 Battalion Camel Officers’ Mess.
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