Brigade Commander Charges Newly Promoted Soldiers to Justify Elevation

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Commander of 34 Artillery Brigade and Land Component Commander for Operation Udoka, Brigadier General Ibrahim Mu’azu Abbas, has urged newly promoted soldiers to justify the confidence placed in them by the Nigerian Army.

He stated that their elevation reflects the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) welfare-driven commitment to recognising dedication, discipline, and professionalism.

According to a statement by Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 34 Artillery Brigade, Major Hashimu Abdullahi, the Commander made the remarks during a decoration ceremony for the newly promoted personnel at the Brigade Parade Ground in Owerri.

Addressing the troops, Brigadier General Abbas congratulated the beneficiaries and reiterated that the Nigerian Army, under the leadership of COAS Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, remains committed to rewarding excellence and hard work.

“Your promotion today is part of the COAS’ mandate to strengthen our operational readiness — I expect you to justify this confidence,” he said.

He highlighted the strategic significance of the promotions, noting that the elevation of around 315 personnel across various units of the Brigade not only recognises individual merit but also strengthens the Brigade’s operational capacity.

He emphasised that the newly attained ranks come with greater responsibility, particularly in supporting ongoing operations under Operation Udoka.

Brigadier General Abbas further charged the soldiers to remain focused, diligent, and loyal, stressing that their new ranks should inspire higher levels of discipline, efficiency, and professionalism.

He reminded them that their commitment is crucial as the Brigade continues to support the 82 Division’s mission to maintain peace and security in the South-East.

The ceremony also featured words of advice from senior officers, including the Chief of Staff, Colonel S.M. Ahmed; the Garrison Commander, Lieutenant Colonel J. Abuo; the Commanding Officer of 342 Artillery Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel B.B. Laah; and the Brigade Regimental Sergeant Major, Master Warrant Officer Malam Garba.

Their remarks centred on leadership, integrity, and the responsibilities accompanying promotion.

Key highlights of the event included the formal decoration of the soldiers by senior officers and family members, symbolising both institutional recognition and personal achievement.

The ceremony concluded with a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.