Lead from the Front, Balogun Urges Newly Promoted Army Officers

The Commander, 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Balogun, on Tuesday decorated five newly promoted senior officers and charged them to justify their elevation through renewed dedication, loyalty and service to the nation.

The officers, elevated from the rank of Major to Lieutenant Colonel, were decorated at a ceremony held at the Tiger 4 Officers’ Mess in Benin City, Edo State.

Balogun said promotion in the Nigerian Army was not merely a reward but a call to higher responsibility, noting that the officers were expected to meet the expectations of the Army Council and the Chief of Army Staff.

He urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them by mentoring junior officers and soldiers, contributing to operational success, and upholding the integrity of the Army.

The brigade commander also advised the officers to lead by example, uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army and remain steadfast in addressing evolving security challenges.

He noted that their conduct and decisions would significantly influence their subordinates and shape the image and effectiveness of the Army.

Balogun commended the families of the officers, especially their spouses, for their sacrifices and support, describing them as critical to the success of the officers’ careers. He encouraged them to continue providing the necessary moral and emotional support.

Also speaking, the Commander, 4 Brigade Garrison, Lt.-Col. Awwal Audu, and the Acting Deputy Director, Benin Group of Church Protestant/4 Brigade Chaplain, Lt.-Col. Samuel Dallys, described the promotion as the beginning of greater responsibility.

They urged the officers to prioritise the welfare, training and mentorship of their subordinates, stressing that the strength of the Army depends on the quality and morale of its personnel.

Responding on behalf of the newly decorated officers, Lt.-Col. David Omoregie expressed gratitude to God and appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for approving their promotion.

He also thanked the brigade commander for presiding over the ceremony and pledged the officers’ commitment to tackling security challenges and safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

The newly decorated officers are Lt.-Col. W.D. Omoregie, Lt.-Col. (Rev. Fr.) M. Nwafor, Lt.-Col. U.M. Tomsu, Lt.-Col. M.T. Nwali and Lt.-Col. S.K. Alkali.

Highlights of the event included the decoration of the officers, a photo session and a luncheon.