Musa to New Major Generals: Justify Your Stars With Service
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has urged 28 newly promoted officers of the Nigerian Army to justify their elevation through renewed dedication, loyalty and improved operational standards.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at a decoration ceremony held in Abuja, General Musa praised the officers for their courage, professionalism and years of selfless sacrifice. The ceremony saw 28 Brigadier-Generals elevated to the rank of Major General, including one posthumous promotion.
“These officers are among the finest leaders in our Armed Forces,” the Minister said, calling on the newly minted two-star generals to confront emerging security threats with fresh resolve and to use their positions to shape the strategic trajectory of the Army. “Your elevation underscores a consistent commitment to national security — now justify those stars with service.”
General Musa also stressed deeper inter-service cooperation and improved intelligence sharing as critical to meeting contemporary security challenges.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces with better resources and improved operational capacity and commended the indispensable support of officers’ families.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, in remarks, described the occasion as a significant milestone that celebrates officers who have demonstrated integrity, competence and loyalty.
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The COAS reiterated that promotion remains a key motivator in the military and affirmed that the Nigerian Army maintains a merit-driven, transparent and fair promotion system.
Lieutenant General Shaibu outlined ongoing efforts to boost morale and welfare through improved healthcare, upgraded infrastructure and a more conducive environment for professional excellence, saying the promotions reflect confidence in the officers’ ability to assume higher responsibilities both at home and in multinational settings.
Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Major General Francis Omata thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the promotions and pledged unwavering loyalty and service. He also commended the Defence Minister and the COAS for their leadership and mentorship.
The ceremony drew a wide array of 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.
The decorations aim to strengthen the Army’s leadership cadre and reinforce its capacity to respond to evolving security threats across the country.
The statement was released by Colonel, Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations of Army Headquarters.
By PRNigeria
