FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN
Commander of 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier-General Ahmed Balogun, on Tuesday, decorated five newly promoted senior officers from the rank of Major to Lieutenant-Colonel within the Brigade.
Speaking at the decoration ceremony held at Tiger 4 Officers Mess in Benin, Edo State, General Balogun charged the promoted officers to justify their elevation through renewed dedication, loyalty and service to the nation.
The commander reminded the decorated officers that promotion is not merely a reward, but a clear indication of the greater responsibilities expected of them by the Army Council and the Chief of Army Staff.
He urged them to justify the confidence reposed on them by mentoring junior officers and soldiers under their command, as well as contributing meaningfully to the operational success and integrity of the Nigerian Army.
Balogun also charged them to lead by example, uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army and remain steadfast in the face of evolving security challenges.
He stressed that their actions, decisions and conduct would not only influence their subordinates, but also shape the overall effectiveness and image of the army.
The commander paid glowing tribute to the families of the newly decorated officers, particularly their spouses, whom he described as steadfast pillars behind the successes being celebrated.
He acknowledged that the journey to promotion is never walked alone, noting that the sacrifices, patience and unwavering support of the home front have been instrumental in enabling the officers to discharge their duties effectively.
He urged the families to continue to stand firmly beside their husbands, offering moral and emotional support necessary for them to excel in their expanded responsibilities.
In their words of advice, the Commander, 4 Brigade Garrison, Lieutenant-Colonel Awwal Audu, and the Acting Deputy Director, Benin Group of Church Protestant, 4 Brigade Chaplain, Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Dallys, urged the officers to see their elevation not as a destination, but as the beginning of greater responsibility and higher expectations.
They reminded them that the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel places them at a critical level of command and staff responsibility, where decisions carry significant operational and strategic consequences.
In his vote of thanks, Lieutenant-Colonel David Omoregie, on behalf of the decorated officers, thanked God for his grace and protection, which he said enabled them to attain the enviable rank.
He also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, for finding them worthy of the elevation, even as he pledged that they would remain steadfast in addressing security challenges and ensuring the safety and territorial integrity of Nigeria.
Aside Omoregie, other decorated officers were Lieutenant-Colonels (Rev Fr) M Nwafor, UM Tomsu, MT Nwali and SK Alkali.
