Army Promotes Five Officers to Lieutenant Colonel, Charges Them on Leadership and National Service
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
The Nigerian Army has elevated five senior officers to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, with a strong call on them to justify their promotion through renewed dedication, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to national service.
The development was announced in a press release issued by Captain Kennedy Anyanwu, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Benin City, on April 7, 2026.
At a decoration ceremony held at the Tiger 4 Officers’ Mess in Benin City, the Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, described the elevation as a call to greater responsibility rather than mere recognition of past achievements.
“Promotion is not merely a reward but a clear indication of the greater responsibilities expected of you by the Army Council and the Chief of Army Staff,” he said.
Balogun urged the newly promoted officers to justify the confidence reposed in them by mentoring junior personnel and contributing meaningfully to operational effectiveness.
“Your actions, decisions, and conduct will not only influence your subordinates but also shape the overall effectiveness and image of the Nigerian Army,” he added.
The Brigade Commander also paid tribute to the families of the officers, particularly their spouses, acknowledging their critical role in supporting the officers’ careers.
“The journey to promotion is never walked alone. The sacrifices, patience, and unwavering support of the home front have been instrumental,” he noted
In separate remarks, 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 Dallas emphasised that the new rank comes with higher expectations and strategic responsibilities
They advised the officers to prioritise the welfare, training, and mentorship of their subordinates, stressing that the strength of the Army lies in the morale and quality of its personnel.
“Be decisive yet fair, firm yet compassionate, and always mindful of the trust reposed in you by the nation,” they charged.
Responding on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Lieutenant Colonel David Omoregie expressed gratitude to God and the leadership of the Nigerian Army, particularly the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu for the elevation.
“We pledge to remain steadfast in addressing security challenges and ensuring the safety and territorial integrity of Nigeria,” he said.
The newly decorated officers include Lieutenant Colonel WD Omoregie, Lieutenant Colonel (Rev Fr) M Nwafor, Lieutenant Colonel UM Tomsu, Lieutenant Colonel MT Nwali, and Lieutenant Colonel SK Alkali.
The ceremony featured the formal decoration of the officers, group photographs, and a luncheon in celebration of their elevation.
