The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, has urged newly promoted Army Warrant Officers (AWOs) and Master Warrant Officers (MWOs) to uphold the highest standards of discipline, leadership and professionalism as they assume their new ranks.
Speaking during their decoration ceremony on 25 November 2025 at the Division’s Headquarters Complex in Victoria Island, Lagos, Major General Mijinyawa said the officers had earned their elevation through dedication, exceptional service and unwavering loyalty to the Nigerian Army. The event followed the recently approved promotion exercise conducted by the Department of Personnel Management, Army Headquarters.
In a statement by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, the GOC commended the beneficiaries for their commitment to duty, stressing that their new ranks carry heightened expectations. He urged them to embody the values of honour, responsibility and mentorship, adding that senior personnel must set the tone for those coming behind them.
Major General Mijinyawa also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, for approving a significant number of promotion vacancies for 81 Division this year. The exercise saw two MWOs elevated to AWOs and 32 Warrant Officers promoted to the rank of MWO.
While emphasizing that leadership must be demonstrated through character and accountability, the GOC reminded the officers that their elevation comes with greater responsibilities. He charged them to recommit themselves to service and deliver excellence at all times.
Responding on behalf of the newly promoted officers, AWO Aminu Yunusa thanked the COAS for the confidence reposed in them and expressed gratitude to the GOC for his support and guidance. He assured that the officers would justify their promotions through renewed dedication, hard work and loyalty.
The ceremony was attended by senior officers, commanders, soldiers, families and well-wishers. It featured congratulatory messages, words of encouragement from senior leaders and a group photograph to mark the memorable occasion.
