The Force Commander of the ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in the Republic of Guinea Bissau, Brigadier General Edward Odinya Ojabo, has decorated three senior officers who were recently elevated to new ranks within the Nigerian Contingent 4 (NIGCOY 4).
The decoration ceremony, held on Friday, September 16, 2025, at the NIGCOY 4 Headquarters, marked an important milestone in the professional careers of the officers. Captains M. Usman and T. Y. Azi were decorated with the rank of Major, while Lieutenant M. A. Olapade was elevated to the rank of Captain.
Addressing the newly promoted officers, Brigadier General Ojabo congratulated them on their well-deserved advancement, describing promotion as a reward for hard work, loyalty, and dedication to duty. He emphasized, however, that promotions also carry added responsibilities and higher expectations.
“Promotion comes from God, but it also means you have been entrusted with greater responsibilities,” he said. “You must therefore remain humble, committed, and willing to serve with integrity.”
The Force Commander advised the officers to live within their means and resist the temptation of pursuing quick wealth, noting that impatience and greed often lead to regrettable consequences. He encouraged them to be patient, hardworking, and steadfast, assuring them that diligence and discipline would ultimately be rewarded.
He further charged the newly decorated officers to see their elevation not only as personal achievements but also as opportunities to contribute more meaningfully to the mission’s success and the overall objectives of ECOWAS in stabilising Guinea Bissau.
The colourful ceremony was witnessed by senior officers, colleagues, and members of other contingents serving under the mission, who gathered to celebrate the achievements of their comrades. The event was described as both solemn and joyous, reflecting the pride of the contingent and the importance of professionalism in military service.
The ECOWAS Stabilisation Support Mission in Guinea Bissau continues to play a vital role in peacekeeping and regional stability, with Nigerian troops contributing significantly to the ongoing efforts.
The Mission’s Public Information Officer, Major Yahaya Nasir Kabara, noted that the promotion of officers within the contingent underscores the recognition of their service and sacrifice in furthering the goals of peace and security in West Africa.
