The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Retired), OFR, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s confidence in the leadership capacity of the newly promoted Major Generals, urging them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and patriotism as they assume greater responsibilities within the Nigerian Army.
General Musa gave the charge on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, while delivering his remarks as Special Guest of Honour at the investiture ceremony for newly elevated Major Generals, held at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja.
The Minister described the ceremony as a significant milestone in the nation’s quest to build a stronger, more capable, and future-ready Army. He said the officers promoted to the rank of Major General exemplify excellence built over years of disciplined service, strategic leadership, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria.
He noted that their promotions were earned through a transparent, rigorous, and competitive process, commending the Chief of Army Staff, Army Council, and senior leadership of the Nigerian Army for maintaining the integrity of the system.
General Musa emphasized that the new rank places the officers at the strategic core of national defence, where their decisions will shape the operational effectiveness, cohesion, and long-term vision of the Nigerian Army.
“The roles you will now play require sound judgment, emotional intelligence, courage, and firm loyalty to the Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief,” he said. “When the story of your service is told, I am confident it will echo courage, patriotism, and dedicated service.”
He urged the senior officers to lead with humility, integrity, compassion for subordinates, and unwavering dedication to national unity and security.
Reflecting on continuity in military leadership, General Musa paid tribute to recently retired senior officers, describing their service as a legacy of honour, discipline, institutional reforms, and operational achievements. He reminded the newly promoted officers that leadership is a relay and charged them to uphold and surpass the standards set by their predecessors.
The Minister also extended appreciation to the families of the officers, acknowledging their sacrifices as a vital but often unrecognized contribution to national security. He reassured them of the administration’s strong commitment to enhancing the welfare of military personnel and their families, including improvements in accommodation, healthcare, insurance, logistics, and training.
Conveying the congratulations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, General Musa said the Commander-in-Chief remains dedicated to building a more professional, better-resourced, and combat-ready Armed Forces.
He concluded by encouraging the newly promoted Major Generals to embrace their new roles with renewed patriotism:
“Lead with wisdom, act with integrity, command with compassion, and remain unwavering in the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity.”
The ceremony drew senior military officers, families of the celebrants, and defence stakeholders.
