Brigadier General Jibril Garba on Friday formally assumed command as the 15th Commander of the Headquarters 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army, following a change of command ceremony held at the Owena Cantonment in Akure, Ondo State.
The ceremony, conducted in keeping with military tradition, marked the official handover of leadership from the outgoing Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Justin Ifeanyi, to his successor.
Addressing officers and soldiers during his farewell speech, Ifeanyi expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the brigade.
He described the appointment as a rare privilege that afforded him the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the Nigerian Army’s operational objectives and the nation’s security efforts.
The outgoing commander also commended officers and men of the brigade for their loyalty, professionalism, discipline and commitment throughout his tenure, noting that their collective dedication accounted for the operational and administrative successes recorded by the formation.
“I sincerely appreciate the Chief of Army Staff for the confidence reposed in me to command this brigade. I am equally grateful to all officers and soldiers for their unwavering support, resilience, discipline and dedication during my stay here. The achievements we recorded were made possible through our collective efforts,” he said.
He urged the personnel to extend the same level of commitment and cooperation to the new commander to ensure continuity in the brigade’s operations and achievements.
Ifeanyi stressed that discipline must remain the guiding principle of the formation, urging troops to uphold the high standards already established within the brigade.
He warned personnel against the misuse of social media, reminding them to strictly comply with the Nigerian Army Social Media Policy in the discharge of their duties.
“Discipline remains the bedrock of this brigade. I encourage all personnel to sustain and even improve on the existing standard. Avoid the abuse of social media and always conduct yourselves in accordance with the Nigerian Army Social Media Policy. Be worthy ambassadors of the brigade and the Nigerian Army wherever you find yourselves,” he said.
The event featured the signing of the handing and taking over documents, the formal transfer of the command flag, and the ceremonial lowering and hoisting of the command flag at the Quarter Guard.
Other highlights included a farewell address to troops and a group photograph attended by senior officers, soldiers and invited guests.
Brig.-Gen. Garba’s assumption of office marks a new phase in the leadership of the 32 Artillery Brigade, one of the Nigerian Army formations responsible for maintaining security and supporting military operations within its area of responsibility.