The outbreak of civil hostilities in Nigeria in 1967 necessitated the creation of additional divisions of the nation's army. At the heat of the battle, a unique army division was formed, and was given a name that was synonymous to its terrain of operation. That Division was the "3 Marine Commando" . It was first put under the command of a young army officer, Lt Col BAM Adekunle, popularly known as "Black Scorpion" . However, the Division has since changed its name and has been christened "3 Infantry Division" , and in 1975, it was again renamed "3 Armoured Division" . As at the year 2002, it has been commanded by 21 General Officers Commanding.
The logo of the 3 Armoured Division is the Octopus, which belongs to the family of the most highly organized water animals. It is a carnivorous animal, seizing living prey with the suckers while the mouth has a powerful honey beak. Col BAM Adekunle who was the first General Officer Commanding the 3 Marine Commando chose the logo.
