The Commander of the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers, Major General Shamsudeen Shafaru, has called on newly promoted senior officers to see their elevation as a renewed call to duty and not a celebration of personal achievement.
Speaking on Saturday during an investiture ceremony for four officers promoted from Major to Lieutenant Colonel at the Sappers Officers’ Mess, Bonny Cantonment, Lagos, the Chief Sapper urged them to immediately set their sights on the next substantive rank.
“Work hard towards the next substantive rank; never rest on your oars,” he told the celebrants. “Your real command starts now.”
General Shafaru reminded the officers that higher rank attracts greater responsibility and scrutiny, quoting the popular saying: “To whom much is given, much is expected.”
He specifically charged them to prioritise the welfare of troops under their command and ensure unit cohesion.
The Corps Commander also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his strategic guidance and continued support to the Nigerian Army Engineers.
In his remarks, the Chief of Staff, Headquarters Nigerian Army Engineers, Brigadier General AM Jungudo, cautioned the newly promoted officers against treating their elevation as mere decoration.
“This is recognition of hard work, dedication, and distinguished service,” he said, urging them to take an active interest in the development of their subordinates.
Other senior officers at the event congratulated the celebrants and encouraged them to stay aligned with the service’s overall direction.
Speaking on behalf of the promoted officers, Lieutenant Colonel AA Johnson thanked the Chief of Army Staff for the elevation and appreciated the Corps Commander for his guidance and purposeful leadership. The list of the promoted senior officers includes: Lieutenant Colonel AA Johnson, Lieutenant Colonel M Maidawa, Lieutenant Colonel BO Oni and Lieutenant Colonel T Usman
Reward for Hardwork
Confirming the details of the ceremony to Voice of Nigeria, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Army Engineers, Lieutenant Colonel M. Maidawa who was also among the newly decorated officers described the event as both a reward for hard work and a challenge for greater commitment.
“This elevation is not just a personal honour; it is a call to rededicate ourselves to the service of the nation and the wellbeing of our troops,” Lieutenant Colonel Maidawa said.
He further assured that the newly promoted officers would remain steadfast in upholding the standards of the Nigerian Army and the vision of the Chief of Army Staff.
Highlights of the ceremony included the pinning of new rank badges, words of encouragement from senior officers, remarks by the Corps Commander, a group photograph, and refreshments.
The event was attended by serving and retired senior military officers, spouses and relatives of the celebrants, invited guests, and members of the Sapper family.