The Commander, Corps of Engineers (CCE), Major General ST Shafaru, has urged newly promoted senior officers of the Nigerian Army Engineers to rededicate themselves to service and strive for greater professional excellence.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Assistant Director Army Public Relations Nigerian Army Engineers, Lt.-Col.Mohammed Maidawa , on Saturday in Lagos.
He said the Commander made the call during the investiture ceremony of officers promoted from Major to Lieutenant Colonel, held at the Sappers Officers’ Mess, Bonny Cantonment, Lagos.
Addressing the officers, the Chief Sapper charged them to work diligently towards attaining their next substantive rank, cautioning against complacency.
“Work hard towards the next substantive rank; never rest on your oars,” he said.
He noted that promotion comes with increased responsibility, visibility and expectations, stressing that officers must justify the confidence reposed in them.
“To whom much is given, much is expected,” he added.
Shafaru also emphasised the importance of prioritising troops’ welfare and fostering unit cohesion, noting that effective leadership begins with responsibility for subordinates.
“Your real command starts now,” he said.
The CCE expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for his strategic guidance and continued support to the Nigerian Army Engineers.
In his remarks, the Chief of Staff, Headquarters Nigerian Army Engineers, Brig.-Gen. AM Jungudo, advised the officers to view their promotion as recognition of hard work, dedication and distinguished service.
He urged them to remain committed and take keen interest in the professional development of their subordinates.
Other senior officers at the event congratulated the newly promoted officers and encouraged them to align with the vision and operational direction of the Nigerian Army.
Responding on behalf of the promoted officers, Lt.-Col. AA Johnson expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff for the elevation and appreciated the CCE for his leadership and mentorship.
Those decorated were Lt.-Col. AA Johnson, Lt.-Col. M Maidawa, Lt.-Col. BO Oni and Lt.-Col. T Usman.
The ceremony featured the decoration of the officers with their new rank badges, goodwill messages from senior officers, group photographs and light refreshments.
The event was attended by serving and retired senior military officers, spouses, relatives of the celebrants, invited guests, and members of the Sapper family.
