The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has inaugurated a 1200-seater auditorium at the Albalti Army Barracks in Surulere, Lagos State. The auditorium, named Bola Tinubu Hall, is one of several projects facilitated by Gbajabiamila at the barracks. During the inauguration, Gbajabiamila expressed his deep admiration for the military, describing soldiers as “admirable professionals.”

Gbajabiamila revealed that he had attempted to join the military as a young man but was unable to do so due to his weight and size. He eventually pursued a career in law instead. Despite not being able to join the military, Gbajabiamila said he has always admired soldiers and praised their sacrifices for the country. He commended the military for their role in preserving the country’s unity and protecting its democracy.

The Federal Government, according to Gbajabiamila, is committed to the welfare of soldiers. He noted that the facilitation of the auditorium and other projects at the barracks is a testament to the government’s appreciation for the military’s pivotal role in nation-building. The auditorium is expected to provide a conducive environment for military personnel to hold training sessions, social functions, and other activities.

Muiz Dosunmu, the Vice Chairman of Surulere Local Government, praised the cooperation between the council and the Abalti Barracks community, which has facilitated several notable projects in the barracks. He described Surulere as a leading local government in Nigeria, excelling in development, education, sports, and health infrastructure.

The Director of the Nigeria Army Corps, Lt.-Col. Michael Toriola, thanked Gbajabiamila for the auditorium and other projects, describing him as a role model and philanthropist. The event was attended by several APC leaders, including Desmond Elliot, a member representing Surulere Constituency I in the House of Assembly, and officers and men of the Nigerian Army.

The inauguration of the Bola Tinubu Hall is seen as a significant development in the country’s efforts to support its military personnel. The project underscores the importance of creating an environment that fosters excellence and service. With the completion of the auditorium, the military personnel at the Albalti Army Barracks now have access to a state-of-the-art facility that will enhance their training and social activities.