Defence Minister charges newly promoted Major Generals to elevate operational standards
The Nigerian Army on Wednesday decorated 28 senior officers with new ranks, as the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), called on the newly promoted generals to deepen their commitment to national security and raise the Army’s operational standards in the face of evolving threats.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1 in Asokoro, Abuja, saw 28 Brigadier Generals elevated to the prestigious rank of Major General — including one posthumous promotion. The event drew a distinguished audience from across Nigeria’s security and political landscape.
Col. Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, disclosed this in a statement she issued on Wednesday.
Addressing the officers, General Musa, who served as Special Guest of Honour, commended their professionalism, courage and years of loyal service. He described the new Major Generals as some of the finest leaders in the Armed Forces, stressing that their elevation reflects the nation’s confidence in their abilities and character.
He urged the officers to bring renewed energy to the fight against insecurity, noting that their new positions place them at critical decision-making levels in Nigeria’s defence architecture. “Your promotion is not just a reward; it is a call to even greater responsibility,” he said, adding that enhancing inter-service cooperation, intelligence sharing and unity of effort remains essential to national security.
The Minister also highlighted the vital role of military families and reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to improving welfare, providing better resources and strengthening the operational capacity of the Armed Forces. He conveyed the President’s congratulations and assurances that the administration remains focused on modernizing defence capabilities.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described the decoration ceremony as a proud moment for the Nigerian Army. He emphasized that the promotions were based on merit, integrity and consistent performance, reaffirming the Army’s adherence to a transparent and fair promotion system.
The COAS outlined ongoing efforts to boost morale through improved healthcare facilities, enhanced infrastructure and a supportive professional environment. He noted that the newly promoted officers have demonstrated the leadership qualities required to assume higher responsibilities both within Nigeria and in international peace and security engagements.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Major General Francis Omata expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the promotions. He pledged unwavering loyalty and a renewed commitment to serving the nation. He also paid tribute to the Minister of Defence and the Army Chief for what he described as their exemplary leadership and steady mentorship.
The ceremony was attended by an array of high-profile 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, senior military commanders, and the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association.
The event concluded with a strong message of unity, renewed dedication and collective resolve to bolster national security as the newly promoted Major Generals step into more strategic roles in the Nigerian Army.
