The Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, has decorated five newly promoted senior officers elevated from the rank of Major to Lieutenant Colonel, charging them to justify their promotion through renewed dedication, loyalty, and unwavering service to the nation.
The decoration ceremony was held on Tuesday, 7 April 2026, at the Tiger 4 Officers’ Mess in Benin City, Edo State.
In a statement issued by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Captain Kennedy Anyanwu, Brigadier General Balogun described the promotion as more than a reward, stressing that it represents greater responsibilities entrusted to the officers by the Army Council and the Chief of Army Staff.
He urged the newly decorated officers to justify the confidence reposed in them by mentoring junior officers and soldiers under their command, while also contributing meaningfully to the operational success and institutional integrity of the Nigerian Army.
The Brigade Commander further charged the officers to lead by example, uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army, and remain steadfast in the face of evolving security challenges.
He noted that their actions, decisions, and conduct would not only influence their subordinates but also shape the overall effectiveness and public image of the Army.
Brigadier General Balogun also paid glowing tribute to the families of the newly promoted officers, especially their spouses, describing them as steadfast pillars behind the successes being celebrated.
He acknowledged that the journey to promotion is never walked alone, noting that the sacrifices, patience, and unwavering support of the home front have been instrumental in enabling the officers to discharge their duties effectively.
He urged the families to continue providing the moral and emotional support necessary for the officers to excel in their expanded responsibilities.
Also speaking at the event, the Commander, 4 Brigade Garrison, Lieutenant Colonel Awwal Audu, and the Acting Deputy Director, Benin Group of Church Protestant/4 Brigade Chaplain, Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Dallys, advised the officers to see their elevation not as a destination but as the beginning of greater responsibility and higher expectations.
They reminded them that the rank of Lieutenant Colonel places them at a critical level of command and staff responsibility, where decisions carry significant operational and strategic consequences.
They also urged the officers to invest in the welfare, training, and mentorship of their subordinates, stressing that the strength of the Army lies in the quality and morale of its personnel.
In his vote of thanks, Lieutenant Colonel David Omoregie, speaking on behalf of the newly decorated officers, thanked God Almighty for His grace and protection and expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for finding them worthy of the elevation.
He also thanked the Brigade Commander for presiding over the ceremony and pledged that the officers would remain steadfast in addressing security challenges and ensuring the safety and territorial integrity of Nigeria.
The newly decorated senior officers are Lieutenant Colonel WD Omoregie, Lieutenant Colonel (Rev Fr) M Nwafor, Lieutenant Colonel UM Tomsu, Lieutenant Colonel MT Nwali, and Lieutenant Colonel SK Alkali.
Highlights of the ceremony included the decoration of the officers with their new ranks, photographs, and a luncheon.
