Lead with Courage, Integrity – Defence Minister Charges 27 Newly Promoted Major Generals
The Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, has urged 27 senior officers of the Nigerian Army newly elevated to the rank of Major General to demonstrate courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment in the discharge of their duties.
The decorated officers, previously Brigadier Generals, were honoured at a ceremony on Wednesday. Among them was the late Brig.-Gen. Z.A. Saidu, who was posthumously promoted to Major General in recognition of his service.
Addressing the event, Gen. Musa commended the officers for their dedication, describing their promotion as both a recognition of past accomplishments and a testament to the nation’s trust in their capacity to assume greater strategic responsibilities.
He emphasized that attaining the rank of Major General requires outstanding resilience, moral integrity, strategic thinking, and allegiance to national service.
“Each of the senior officers before us today has displayed exceptional command capability, staff proficiency, and strategic insight, making them deserving of this honour,” he said.
The minister also applauded the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), the Army Council, and the service leadership for ensuring a credible and merit-driven promotion process. He noted that the current security environment demands visionary, adaptable, and courageous leaders capable of guiding the Army through complex challenges.
“You are being entrusted with responsibilities that will directly shape the cohesion, strength, and strategic direction of the Nigerian Army,” he added.
“Lead by example—show humility, firmness in decision-making, and compassion to your subordinates, while remaining loyal to the Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief.”
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Gen. Musa further acknowledged the sacrifices of the officers’ families, describing their support as an essential but often uncelebrated contribution to national security.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, charged the new Major Generals to exhibit exemplary professionalism, strategic foresight, and utmost loyalty as they take up higher command roles.
Shaibu stated that the promotion reflected years of sacrifice, adding that the officers now operate at a level where their decisions have direct implications on national security.
He highlighted Nigeria’s evolving security threats—including terrorism, banditry, and other asymmetric challenges—and urged the officers to strengthen operational efficiency across all formations and theatres.
“Our expectations are high. Troops on the front lines must feel your leadership, and citizens must feel the impact of your decisions,” he said.
The COAS stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration, noting that no single organisation can independently resolve the country’s complex security challenges. He also underscored the Army’s growing regional responsibilities in promoting stability across West Africa.
Shaibu encouraged officers who were not promoted to remain focused, stressing that military progression is guided strictly by merit, integrity, and professionalism.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Maj.-Gen. Francis Omatai expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for approving their promotion. He described the elevation as both an honour and a renewed call to higher service, pledging the commitment of all newly promoted officers to uphold the values and mission of the Nigerian Army.
The event ended with goodwill messages and commendations to the families of the officers for their enduring support.
By PRNigeria
