The Nigerian Army has decorated seven newly elevated senior military officers in Jos, Plateau State. The event took place at the Rhino Officers’ Mess within Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, according to Punch.
The General Officer Commanding of 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Maxwell Dangana, oversaw the proceedings. In a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Olumide Olukoya, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 3 Division, the GOC urged the personnel to justify the trust placed in them. He noted that their elevation stands as recognition of their commitment, dedication, and past contributions to the armed forces.
Major General Dangana reminded the personnel that higher ranks bring greater responsibilities rather than just badges of achievement. He urged them to show discipline, steadfastness, and exemplary leadership while upholding the core principles of the military.
The officers who received their new insignia included Commander JU Abdullahi, who moved up to Navy Captain. Seven Lieutenant Colonels were elevated to the rank of Colonel: GY Mohammed, D Yakubu, A Kadiri, KY Olorunishola, TG Apase, AO Akindele, and MZ Garba. (Note: While seven officers reached Colonel rank alongside one Naval officer, the total decorated personnel listed at the ceremony comprised these eight officers).
Speaking for the promoted group, Navy Captain JU Abdullahi thanked Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu and Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abbas for the promotions. He gave assurances that the officers would repay the trust placed in them through renewed commitment, discipline, and professional conduct in their assignments.
Navy Captain Abdullahi also expressed gratitude to the GOC for presiding over the ceremony despite his tight schedule. The gathering brought together serving and retired commanders, leaders of various security bodies, families, and invited guests who offered goodwill messages and posed for group photographs.
