By Odita Sunday
The Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) has decorated 14 newly promoted officers to the rank of Colonel during a ceremony held on Wednesday, 9 October 2025, at the Tukur Yusufu Buratai Auditorium, Asokoro, Abuja.
The Commandant of the College, Major General Umar Mohammed Alkali, who presided over the event, congratulated the officers for their well-deserved promotions and described the elevation as a call to greater service, responsibility, and commitment to the nation.
He reminded the officers that promotion in the Nigerian Army comes with higher expectations, particularly at the operational level, urging them to remain disciplined, focused, and innovative in tackling contemporary security challenges.
Major General Alkali further emphasized the “Soldier First” concept of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede (NAM), which underscores the primacy of the soldier in every officer’s duty. He charged the newly promoted Colonels to prioritize the welfare of their troops and uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army.
The newly decorated Colonels are Lt Col AE Oladipo, Lt Col DB Fapohunda, Lt Col UB Mai Garba, Lt Col LA Adejo, Lt Col EA Kaan, Lt Col M Mohammed, Lt Col YI Isiaku, Lt Col ZA Sadau, Lt Col SA Arogundade, Lt Col AO Ochigo, Lt Col MD Adamu, Lt Col AA Uma, Lt Col DO Ehicheoya, and Lt Col AS Adisa.
Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Colonel AE Oladipo expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff and the College leadership for their guidance and support, pledging renewed dedication to duty and national service.
The event was attended by senior military officers, members of the faculty, staff, families, and well-wishers, and concluded with a group photograph and light refreshments.