The 28 newly promoted Major Generals of the Nigerian Army have been decorated with their new ranks amid a call to justify their elevation through renewed dedication, loyalty and selfless service to the nation.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, who gave the charge at the decoration ceremony held at the Command Officers’ Mess, Abuja, commended the officers for their courage, professionalism and years of sacrifice, noting that their promotion reflects their outstanding commitment to national security.
He urged them to confront emerging security threats with renewed vigour, saying their new ranks place them in critical positions to shape the strategic direction of the Nigerian Army.
Musa emphasised the need for deeper inter-service collaboration, enhanced intelligence sharing and unity of effort among all security agencies. He acknowledged the crucial support of the officers’ families and reassured them of the Federal Government’s determination to improve troops’ welfare and provide better equipment.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, described the event as a milestone that honours officers who have consistently displayed integrity, competence and loyalty. He stressed that promotion in the Nigerian Army remains strictly merit-based, transparent and equitable.
The COAS highlighted ongoing initiatives to boost morale through improved healthcare, upgraded barracks infrastructure and a more enabling environment for professional excellence. He expressed confidence that the newly promoted senior officers would discharge their higher responsibilities with distinction.
Speaking on behalf of the promotees, Major General Francis Omata expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for approving their elevation. He pledged unflinching loyalty to the Constitution and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, while commending the Minister of Defence and the COAS for their exemplary leadership and mentorship.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished personalities, including the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; serving and retired Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, members of the National Assembly, principal staff officers from Defence and Service Headquarters, corps commanders, commandants of tri-service institutions and senior officers’ spouses led by the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association.
