The Nigerian Army has elevated six Majors to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, charging them to live up to the confidence reposed in them and rise to the greater demands of their new responsibilities.
The decoration ceremony, held at the 81 Division Officers’ Mess in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Thursday, was presided over by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Adebayo Babalola, who described the promotion as both a recognition of merit and a call to higher service.
The newly decorated officers are Lieutenant Colonel A. Sanusi, Lieutenant Colonel A.L. Lawal, Lieutenant Colonel L.A. Ishaku, Lieutenant Colonel B.J. Gimba, Lieutenant Colonel M.B. Sifawa, and Lieutenant Colonel G.O. Uwagboe.
Speaking at the event, Babalola commended the officers for their dedication, discipline, and consistent performance, noting that their elevation was well-earned.
“This promotion is not accidental. It is a product of your hard work, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty,” he said.
“You have demonstrated capacity over time, and the Army has found you worthy of higher responsibility.”
The GOC, however, reminded the officers that their new rank comes with heightened expectations and accountability, urging them to remain focused and exemplary in their conduct.
“As Lieutenant Colonels, more will be demanded of you, both in leadership and in service delivery,” he stated.
“You must justify the confidence reposed in you by remaining disciplined, committed, and result-oriented.”
He stressed that leadership at their level requires not only tactical competence but also integrity and the ability to inspire subordinates.
“You are now in positions where your decisions will have far-reaching implications,” Babalola added.
“Lead with integrity, mentor the younger officers, and uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army at all times.”
According to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, 81 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, the promoted officers currently occupy critical roles within the division, spanning intelligence, training, education, administration, and regimental responsibilities.
Babalola further urged them to see their promotion as a renewed call to national service rather than a ceremonial milestone.
“This elevation is not just about wearing a new rank; it is a call to greater sacrifice and dedication to the nation,” he said.
“You must redouble your efforts in ensuring that the Nigerian Army continues to deliver on its constitutional mandate.”
The ceremony was attended by senior officers, colleagues, and family members, who witnessed the formal decoration of the newly promoted officers, marking a significant milestone in their military careers.
Reaffirming the Army’s commitment to rewarding merit and excellence, the GOC encouraged other officers to remain steadfast in their duties.
“The system recognises and rewards excellence. Let this serve as motivation to others to remain diligent and committed in service to our great nation,” he concluded.
