Army decorates senior officers with new rank of Major General

The Nigerian Army has conducted the investiture of the newly promoted 47 Brigadier Generals with their new ranks of Major Generals.

The decoration ceremony took place at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja.

The 75 senior officers who were promoted from the rank of Colonel are to be decorated with the new rank of Brigadier General by their unit Commanders in their respective units.

Speaking during the investiture, Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, said the promotion was a testament to their courage, dedication to duty and hard work, noting that their diligence to duty, professional conduct and sacrifices earned them their elevation.

“Your promotion is a testament to your many years of hard work, dedication, and commitment to serving our great nation. As a Nigerian, I know firsthand the sacrifices that come with attaining this height.It takes a lot of courage, discipline, and resilience to rise through the ranks.

“It takes a lot of courage, discipline, and resilience to rise through the ranks.

“I am also aware of the rigorous process of selecting those being honoured here today and I am bold to say you are all indeed one of our finest breed and the Nation is proud of you. You have all shown exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking and a deep understanding in the course of your careers.

“Your contributions to the Nigerian Army are invaluable, and we are confident that you will continue to serve our nation with honour and distinction,” he stated.

The Minister while acknowledging the sacrifices of the Nigerian Army personnel in the fight against insecurity, congratulated them on their elevation and charged them to redouble their efforts towards ending security challenges bedevilling the country.

“This promotion is a beacon of hope to all Nigerians and a call to elevate your efforts in the fight against insecurity especially in the North West and other parts of the Country,” he noted.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja acknowledged that the beneficiaries were rewarded for their hard work and commitment to duty.

He said the system frowns at incompetence hence the need to give in their best.

He urged them to be logical and objective in their professional conduct for effective performance.

The Army Chief charged the senior officers to work diligently in line with the COAS philosophy which is to “Transform the Nigerian Army into a Well-trained, equipped and highly motivated force, towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a Joint Environment”

He congratulated the beneficiaries on their well-deserved elevation and thanked their spouses for their support in keeping the home front safe.