Defence Minister Musa Charges Newly Promoted Major Generals to Elevate Operational Standards
Abuja (Core Reporters) The Nigerian Army has decorated 28 senior officers with new ranks, as the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), charged them to justify their elevation with renewed dedication, loyalty and service to the nation. The decoration ceremony, held at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja, saw 28 Brigadier Generals elevated to the rank of Major General, including one posthumous promotion.
General Musa, who served as Special Guest of Honour, commended the officers for their courage, professionalism and years of selfless sacrifice. He noted that their promotion reflects their consistent commitment to national security and the collective effort to strengthen the Nigerian Army. He urged them to confront emerging security threats with fresh resolve, stressing that their new responsibilities place them in critical positions to shape the strategic direction of the Army.
“These officers are among the finest leaders in our Armed Forces,” he said, expressing deep personal pride in their achievements.
The Minister emphasized the need for stronger inter-service cooperation, enhanced intelligence sharing and greater unity of effort among all security agencies. He acknowledged the invaluable support of the officers’ families and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving personnel welfare. He conveyed the felicitations of the President and Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, assuring that the administration will continue to strengthen the Armed Forces with improved resources and expanded operational capacity.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described the occasion as a significant milestone honouring officers who have consistently demonstrated integrity, competence and loyalty. He reiterated that promotion remains a key motivator in the military and reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army maintains a transparent, merit-driven promotion system.
The COAS also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance morale and welfare through improved healthcare services, upgraded infrastructure and a more conducive environment for professional excellence. He noted that the elevation of the senior officers reflects confidence in their ability to assume higher responsibilities and contribute meaningfully to national and international security.
Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Major General Francis Omata expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for approving their promotions. He pledged unwavering loyalty and reaffirmed the officers’ commitment to national service. He also commended the Minister of Defence and the COAS for their exemplary leadership and mentorship.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Minister of State for Finance, members of the National Assembly, Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, former Service Chiefs, principal staff officers from Defence and Service Headquarters, Corps Commanders, Commandants of training institutions and the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, among others.
