Force Commander OPWS charges newly promoted officers on integrity, discipline

From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi

The Force Commander, Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Major General Moses Gara, has charged newly promoted officers to lead by example and make integrity their guiding principle as they advance in their military and police careers.

Gara stated this at the decoration ceremony of officers promoted from the ranks of Captain to Major, Lieutenant (Navy) to Lieutenant Commander, and Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).

The event, which brought together personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, and the Nigeria Police Force, was hosted by the Commander 401 Special Forces Brigade/Sector 1 OPWS, Colonel Kolawole Bukoye, at the 401 Special Forces Brigade Joint Officers’ Mess, Joe Akaahan Cantonment, Makurdi, on Friday, September 12, 2025.

In his keynote address as Special Guest of Honour, Major General Gara congratulated the officers on their well-deserved elevation, stressing that promotion comes with greater expectations and responsibilities.

He reminded them that the military places a high premium on professionalism, career progression, and personal development, noting that dedication to service remains the surest path to success.

The Force Commander further highlighted the importance of continuous self-improvement, prudent financial management, and strong regimentation and charged the officers to remain disciplined, uphold the military ethos of loyalty, commitment, and sacrifice, and provide exemplary leadership to their subordinates.

He further noted, “Your subordinates will look up to you, and your superiors will demand results. You must therefore lead by example and make integrity your watchword.”

Emphasising their critical role as the backbone of the Armed Forces and security agencies, Major General Gara urged the newly promoted officers to remain steadfast in discharging their duties, as their performance reflects directly on the credibility of their respective services.

Speaking on behalf of the newly decorated officers, Major N. Miri-Dashe expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, other Service Chiefs, and the Inspector General of Police for finding them worthy of elevation.

The officer, who also commended the Force Commander for his inspiring leadership and mentorship, assured that they would justify the confidence reposed in them and rededicate themselves to serve with renewed vigour.

A statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF OPWS, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, and made available to newsmen in Makurdi on Sunday, said beneficiaries of the promotion include nine Army officers elevated to the rank of Major, one Naval officer promoted to Lieutenant Commander, and one Police officer promoted to DSP.