Army decorates 28 promoted senior officers

Senior Nigerian Army officers receive new ranks during a decoration ceremony at Army Headquarters, Asokoro, Abuja, with Defence Minister General Christopher Musa (Rtd) in attendance on December 10, 2025. Photo: Nigerian Army

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The Nigerian Army on Wednesday formally decorated 28 senior officers with new ranks, with the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), urging them to justify their elevation through renewed dedication, loyalty and service to the nation.

The ceremony, held at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja, saw 28 Brigadier-Generals, including one posthumously, receive their insignia as Major-Generals.

This was contained in a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele.

General Musa, the Special Guest of Honour, praised the officers for their courage, professionalism, and years of selfless service.

He noted that the decorations underscore their consistent commitment to national security and the collective effort to strengthen the Nigerian Army.

“These officers are among the finest leaders in our Armed Forces,” he said.

He also called for deeper inter-service cooperation, enhanced intelligence sharing, and unity of effort across all security agencies, while acknowledging the support of the officers’ families.

Musa conveyed the felicitations of President Bola Tinubu and assured that the government would continue to strengthen the Armed Forces with improved resources and operational capacity.

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, described the event as a milestone celebrating officers who have demonstrated integrity, competence and loyalty.

He emphasised that the Army maintains a merit-driven, transparent and fair promotion system and highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance morale and welfare through improved healthcare, upgraded infrastructure, and a conducive professional environment.

Representing the decorated officers, Major-General Francis Omata thanked Tinubu for approving their promotions and pledged unwavering loyalty to national service.

He also commended the Minister of Defence and the COAS for their guidance and mentorship.

The ceremony was attended by former President Goodluck Jonathan, the Minister of State for Finance, members of the National Assembly, Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, former Service Chiefs, Corps Commanders, Commandants of training institutions, and the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, among others.

The promotions of the 28 officers now being decorated were approved on November 27, 2025, when the Nigerian Army elevated 28 Brigadier‑Generals to Major General and 77 Colonels to Brigadier General.

Okiki is a journalist with over seven years experience covering politics, foreign news, society, entertainment and the film industry.

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