On the morning of Saturday, August 16th 2025, history was quietly rewritten in the heart of Nigeria. Beneath the fluttering banners of unity and discipline, Sister Olufunmilola Kehinde Bamigbaye was handed over to as the 5th Chief Commandant of the African Lasses Brigade Nigeria and Overseas—a moment that echoed far beyond the ceremonial grounds.
Her journey to this sacred responsibility was not paved with ease, but with prayer, perseverance, hard work and purpose. From her earliest days in the Brigade, Sis Olufunmilola stood out—not for ambition, but for her unwavering devotion to the movement’s ideals, she had worked closely with 2 past Brigadier Generals and current Brigadier handling finance and administrative roles. She was a listener, a doer, a quiet force who led by example.In her first official message, she returned all glory to God Almighty, acknowledging that her strength and calling were divinely orchestrated.
Her words were not just ceremonial—they were deeply personal. She honored the leaders who had come before her, especially Elder Sister Margret Abiyẹ Ojo, whose legacy of godly wisdom and selfless service laid the foundation for this new chapter.She extended heartfelt gratitude to Brigadier General Otunba Micheal Oluyomi Akinsola, the state chairmen, vice chairmen, and every officer who had stood by her.
Her message was a tapestry of appreciation—woven with names, memories, and prayers.But perhaps the most touching part was her tribute to her personal heroes: her father, CSP Abraham Oni Odunlami (RTD), whose prayers and words had been her shield; her mentor, Engr. Olusanya Amechi Folarin, who saw potential before it bloomed; and Elder Taiwo Oladipupo Solanke, the great-grandpa of the joint movement, whose encouragement never waned.As she called on the Brigade to prepare for Zonal, Area, and Divisional camping exercises, she didn’t just issue a directive—she offered a prayer.
A prayer for safety, unity, and impact. Her leadership was already marked by grace.And with that, she humbly requested to be addressed as Sis Olufunmilola Kehinde Bamigbaye or Sis O.K. Bamigbaye, Chief Commandant—a name that now carries the weight of history and the promise of a brighter future.In her own words: “Together, with God’s help, we will build upon the legacies of the past and march forward to greater heights of unity, discipline, and impact.”The movement is not hers alone—it is a shared journey. And under her command, the African Lasses Brigade is poised to rise, stronger and more united than ever.
The day was also graced by The Commissioner for youth and social developments Mr Mobolaji Ogungbele which happened to be the Lagos state command Patron , who appeared in full uniform identifying with the organisation and was honoured personally by the Chief Commandant , Sis Olufunmilola Kehinde Bamigbaye. Also at the ceremony is a daughter of the soil and an officer of The African Lasses Brigade Senator Comfort Olafare, Deputy Chairman NYCN, Lagos Chapter.
