The Army Council has granted approval for the promotion of 47 brigadiers-general to the esteemed rank of Major General on December 21. Additionally, 75 Colonels were elevated to the rank of Brigadier General.
The newly appointed Major Generals will receive their decorations at their respective units and formations.
During the ceremony, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, lauded the officers, noting that their promotions were a testament to years of hard work, dedication, and commitment to national service.
He commended their courage, discipline, and resilience, highlighting their exceptional leadership skills and strategic thinking throughout their careers.
Matawalle urged the promoted officers to lead by example, inspire others, and continue their valuable contributions to the Nigerian Army, emphasizing their crucial role in addressing security concerns, particularly in the North West and other parts of the country.
“Your contributions to the Nigerian Army are invaluable, and we are confident that you will continue to serve our nation with honour and distinction.
“As we celebrate your promotion, I urge you to continue leading by example and inspiring others to better your footsteps.
“The Nigerian Army needs more leaders like you who are willing to put their lives on the line for the sake of our nation.
“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 said.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, congratulated the newly decorated Major Generals, viewing their promotions as a well-deserved reward for their dedication to duty.
He underscored the importance of competence within the military and encouraged them to give their best, now that they had reached the level of policy formulation.
Lagbaja emphasized the need for logical and objective professionalism, urging the officers to align with his command philosophy. To those who did not receive promotions, he presented it as a challenge to work harder for future opportunities.
“Today, these 47 newly decorated major generals have ticked the necessary boxes and have been rewarded for their hard work.
“I want to add that getting here is not the end, what you do with the rank and the responsibilities that comes with it count tremendously.
“Going from here, I must remind you that you have now joined the system, and going forward, when you point an accusing finger at the system, know that four fingers are pointed at you and the rest possibly misdirected,” he said.
