34 Artillery Brigade Commander Charges Newly Promoted Soldiers to Uphold Professionalism, Boost Operational Readiness

The Commander, 34 Artillery Brigade and Land Component Commander, Operation UDOKA, Brigadier General Ibrahim Mu’azu Abbas, has urged newly promoted soldiers of the Brigade to justify the confidence reposed in them by the Nigerian Army, describing their elevation as a key part of the Chief of Army Staff’s (COAS) mandate to enhance troop welfare and operational capability.

Gen. Abbas gave the charge on Monday, 24 November 2025, during the decoration ceremony for newly promoted personnel held at the Brigade Parade Ground in Owerri.

This was disclosed on Tuesday in a Release signed by Major Assistant Director, Army Public Relations of 34 Artillery Brigade HASHIMU SA’AD ABDULLAHI, and made available to newsmen.

While congratulating the beneficiaries, the Commander said the Nigerian Army under the leadership of the COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, remains committed to recognizing diligence, professionalism, and loyalty. He reiterated that the promotions reflect the COAS’ determination to strengthen operational readiness across formations.

“Your promotion today is part of the COAS’ mandate to strengthen our operational readiness — I expect you to justify this confidence,” Gen. Abbas told the troops.

He noted that the elevation of about 315 soldiers across various units in the Brigade serves both as recognition of individual excellence and a strategic move to enhance the Brigade’s effectiveness, especially in ongoing operations under Operation UDOKA.

Gen. Abbas urged the personnel to exhibit renewed dedication, discipline, and responsibility in their duties, stressing that higher ranks come with heightened expectations. He also encouraged them to intensify their efforts in support of the 82 Division’s mission to sustain peace and security in the South-East.

Senior officers, including the Chief of Staff, Colonel SM Ahmed; Garrison Commander, Lieutenant Colonel J. Abuo; Commanding Officer 342 Artillery Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel BB Laah; and the Brigade RSM, Master Warrant Officer Malam Garba, also offered words of guidance and encouragement.

The ceremony featured decoration of the newly promoted soldiers by senior officers and their family members, followed by a group photograph to mark the occasion.