OPWS Force Commander Urges Newly Promoted Officers to Uphold Integrity, Discipline

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Major General Moses Gara, has charged newly promoted officers to lead with integrity, discipline, and exemplary conduct as they advance in their military and police careers.

General Gara gave the charge during a decoration ceremony for officers promoted from Captain to Major, Lieutenant (Navy) to Lieutenant Commander, and Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).

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

Delivering his keynote address as Special Guest of Honour, General Gara congratulated the officers on their elevation, stressing that promotion comes with greater responsibilities. He reminded them that professionalism, career progression, and personal development are highly valued in the military, noting that dedication to service remains the surest path to success.

He further emphasized the importance of self-improvement, prudent financial management, and strict regimentation. The Force Commander charged the officers to remain disciplined, uphold loyalty, commitment, and sacrifice, and provide exemplary leadership.

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

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

Speaking on behalf of the 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. He also commended the Force Commander for his mentorship, assuring that the officers would justify the confidence reposed in them and serve with renewed vigor.

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