A new Force Commander has assumed duty at the Headquarters of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in N’Djamena, Chad. He is Major General Saidu Tanko Audu.
This was disclosed in a statement on Thursday by the Chief Military Public Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Iweha Ikedichi.
According to the statement, Major General Audu’s assumption of command follows his redeployment from the Army Department of Training, in line with recent postings approved by the Nigerian Army Headquarters. The postings were part of broader adjustments following the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff and other service chiefs.
The formal handing and taking over ceremony took place on Thursday, 13 November 2025, at the MNJTF Headquarters in N’Djamena.
In his remarks, the outgoing Force Commander, Major General Godwin Michael Mutkut, Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), expressed appreciation to the Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission and Head of Mission, MNJTF, as well as Military Staff Officers, the African Union Mission Support Team, the European Union, and other technical partners for their continued support.
He credited the successes recorded under his leadership to professionalism and teamwork within the MNJTF, urging personnel to extend the same cooperation to his successor as he proceeds to his new appointment as Corps Commander, Infantry Corps, Nigerian Army.
In his maiden address, Major General Audu expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the confidence reposed in him. He commended his predecessor for his exemplary leadership and pledged to build on the existing achievements and strengthen synergy among MNJTF components.
He further charged all personnel to remain disciplined, focused, and innovative in their operations, emphasizing the importance of stronger collaboration with local communities and security stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and stability in the Lake Chad region.
Highlights of the ceremony included the signing and exchange of handing and taking over notes, the symbolic handover of the command flag, and a group photograph.
