In a resplendent ceremony marked by pageantry and solemnity, the Nigerian Army on Monday, December 23, 2024, decorated 35 newly promoted Major Generals at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1 in Asokoro, Abuja. The investiture was a testament to the officers’ unwavering dedication, courage, and professionalism, celebrated under the distinguished auspices of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa.
A Clarion Call to Service and National Security
Delivering his keynote address as the Special Guest of Honour, General Musa commended the newly promoted officers for their exemplary service, which earned them this remarkable career milestone. He emphasized that their elevation was not merely ceremonial but a reflection of their significant contributions to national security.
“Our nation faces multifaceted security challenges, and your promotion signifies hope for Nigerians. It is a call to duty, a call to defend democracy, and a call to ensure the stability of our nation,” the CDS stated. He urged the officers to lead with integrity, prioritize the welfare of troops under their command, and uphold the values of loyalty and dedication.
General Musa also expressed profound gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for endorsing the promotions. He assured the President and Nigerians that the elevated officers would remain resolute in their commitment to protecting the nation’s sovereignty.
Army Leadership’s Charge to the Promoted Officers
In his congratulatory message, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, reminded the officers of the enormous responsibilities attached to their new ranks. He urged them to see the promotion as a trust reposed in them by the Nigerian Army and the nation at large.
“Your achievements are a reflection of your hard work and dedication, but this is only the beginning of greater responsibilities. Let your leadership inspire courage, discipline, and professionalism in your troops,” Oluyede stated. He also highlighted the indispensable role of family support in the officers’ careers, thanking their families for standing by them through challenging times.
The COAS extended his appreciation to President Tinubu for his strategic leadership and unwavering support of the Armed Forces. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, and the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle, for fostering an enabling environment for the Army’s success.
A Pledge of Dedication from the Promoted Officers
Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Major General LG Lepdung expressed their heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu and the military leadership for the honor bestowed upon them. He pledged their collective resolve to work tirelessly in advancing the goals of the Armed Forces and safeguarding the nation’s interests.
“This promotion is both a privilege and a responsibility. We are committed to justifying the confidence reposed in us through dedication to duty, innovation, and unwavering service to the nation,” Major General Lepdung said.
A Distinguished Audience of Dignitaries
The ceremony attracted a host of dignitaries, reflecting the importance of the occasion. Among those in attendance were Senator Abdulazeez Musa Yar’adua, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army; Honourable Aminu Balele, Chairman of the House Committee on Army; Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; and representatives of the Chief of the Air Staff and the Inspector General of Police.
Also present were former Chiefs of Defence Staff, Principal Staff Officers from Defence and Army Headquarters, Corps Commanders, Commandants of Army training institutions, members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), and other esteemed guests.
The ceremony concluded with a vibrant display of camaraderie and commitment, leaving attendees inspired by the resolve of the Nigerian Army to tackle contemporary security challenges. The decorated officers now bear the responsibility of steering the Armed Forces toward a future defined by professionalism, discipline, and unyielding dedication to the nation’s unity and progress.
Signed,
ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Major General
Director, Army Public Relations
23 December 2024
PIONEER NEWS 