A new chapter opened in the leadership of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, on Thursday, October 23, as Brigadier-General Nicholas Rume formally assumed duty as the brigade’s 23rd Commander.
Naijaonpoint reports that Rume’s assumption of duty followed the latest posting and redeployment of senior officers across the Nigerian Army, as approved by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Olufemi Oluyede.
According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, the handing-over ceremony took place at the Brigade Headquarters, Sobi Cantonment, Ilorin.
“The event featured the signing of the handing-over notes, a farewell address to troops by the outgoing Commander, and the symbolic presentation of the command flag to the incoming Commander,” the statement read.
The ceremony climaxed with the hoisting of a new brigade flag at the Quarter Guard, a military tradition symbolising the beginning of a new command era.
Rume, during the event, pledged to intensify operations against banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities in Kwara and adjoining states.
In his valedictory remarks, Brigadier-General Ezra Bawa Barkins, the outgoing commander, expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for the opportunity to serve, while commending the troops for their loyalty, professionalism, and dedication.
“I appreciate every officer and soldier for their unflinching support throughout my tenure. I urge you to extend the same level of loyalty and cooperation to my successor to ensure continued operational success,” Barkins said.
He urged troops to remain disciplined and vigilant, noting that the brigade’s operations had been pivotal in combating banditry, kidnapping, and illegal mining across Kwara, Kogi, and Niger States.
Taking over the mantle of leadership, Brigadier-General Rume commended his predecessor’s achievements and vowed to build on existing successes through enhanced collaboration with other security agencies.
“Fighting insecurity requires teamwork, discipline, and professionalism,” Rume said. “I am committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and safety for our people.”
He assured residents that the 22 Armoured Brigade would sustain its active role in counter-banditry, anti-kidnapping, and anti-illegal mining operations within the North-Central region.
“We will continue to defend the territorial integrity of our nation and protect lives and property across Kwara and neighbouring states,” he added.
The Nigerian Army, through its recent postings, reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening command efficiency and regional stability.
Naijaonpoint reports that the 22 Armoured Brigade remains a key operational formation in the North-Central zone, supporting joint operations with the Nigeria Police Force, Civil Defence, and other security agencies in ongoing efforts to restore peace and curb criminal networks across the region.
© 2025 Naijaonpoint, a division of NOP Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]