COAS Oversaw the Investiture of Newly Promoted Major Generals
Aysha S. Rabo
In a distinguished ceremony held on Thursday, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), oversaw the investiture of 47 recently promoted Major Generals in the Nigerian Army. General Lagbaja commended the officers and stressed the responsibilities that accompany their elevated rank in a significant address during the event.
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Expressing gratitude to the families of the newly decorated Major Generals, General Lagbaja acknowledged the sacrifices made by spouses and children of military personnel. He underscored the crucial role played by officers’ families in supporting their rise to the esteemed rank of Major General.
While recognising the divine aspect of promotions, General Lagbaja emphasised the importance of personal efforts and qualifications in reaching such heights in a military career. He commended the 47 officers for meeting the necessary criteria, achieving a well-deserved promotion through hard work and dedication.
General Lagbaja advised the newly promoted Major Generals, stating that their journey had just begun. He highlighted that their actions and decisions with the new rank would significantly impact their careers and the Nigerian Army as a whole. He reminded them of their roles in the policy formulation team and cautioned against incompetence, emphasising the zero-tolerance stance for breaches of trust.
“As Major Generals, you are now part of the system. Your loyalty to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. President and Commander in Chief, and the leadership of the Nigerian Army should be nothing less than 100%,” General Lagbaja remarked.
The COAS challenged the officers to familiarise themselves with the Nigerian Army, armed forces, and the country’s political, diplomatic, and economic dynamics. He stressed the need for logical and objective contributions to the system, considering their potential future roles as General Officer Commanding, principal staff officers, or commanders.
Acknowledging the reality that not all officers can attain the highest positions, General Lagbaja urged them to focus on their unique contributions. He encouraged those who did not make it through the promotion board this year to work harder for future opportunities.
In closing, General Lagbaja expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Honorable Minister of Defence, Mohammad Badaru Abubakar, and the Honorable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Muhammad Bello Matawalle, for their guidance and support to the Nigerian Army. He also thanked the Chief of Defence Staff and fellow service chiefs for their backing.
The distinguished guests include the executive governors of Edo and Taraba State, Godwin Obaseki, and Dr. Kefas; the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and several senators, were part of the gathering that acknowledged the significant achievement of the newly promoted officers. The Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Honourable Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, and other key figures from various ministries and security agencies also graced the occasion
The ceremony concluded with General Lagbaja extending his congratulations once again to the newly promoted Major Generals and their families, wishing them continued success in their careers.
COAS Oversaw the Investiture of Newly Promoted Major Generals