By Adesakin Adefemi
Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu has officially assumed duty as the 14th Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Alamala, Abeokuta, Ogun State. His appointment marks a new chapter for the Brigade as it continues its operations in the South West. He succeeds Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba, who has completed his tour of duty.
The formal handing over ceremony took place at the Brigade Headquarters inside Alamala Barracks, Abeokuta. The event attracted a full assembly of senior officers, unit commanders, and soldiers serving under the Brigade. Military tradition and protocol guided the proceedings from start to finish.
In a statement released on Saturday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Major Idereghi Samuel Akari, the outgoing Commander’s next posting was confirmed. Brigadier General Nwamba has been redeployed to Army Headquarters, where he will serve as Acting Deputy Chief of Civil-Military Affairs for Psychological Operations. The role places him at the center of the Army’s strategic communication and community engagement efforts.
Delivering his farewell address, Brigadier General Nwamba expressed appreciation to officers and soldiers of the Brigade for their loyalty and hard work throughout his tenure. He said their professionalism and commitment were instrumental to the operational and administrative achievements recorded under his leadership. He noted improvements in training, welfare, and civil-military relations during his time in command.
Nwamba also urged personnel to give his successor the same level of cooperation and dedication. He expressed confidence that the Brigade would build on the progress made and continue to meet its responsibilities to the Nigerian Army and the nation. His remarks drew applause from officers and soldiers present at the ceremony.
In his acceptance remarks, Brigadier General Onu commended Nwamba for the developmental strides achieved during his command. He described his predecessor’s tenure as marked by notable improvements in infrastructure, discipline, and morale. Onu also congratulated Nwamba on his new appointment at Army Headquarters and wished him success in the assignment.
Addressing the troops, the new Commander charged officers and soldiers to remain dedicated to duty and uphold the highest standards of professionalism. He stressed that discipline, integrity, and teamwork remain the foundation of the Nigerian Army’s effectiveness. Onu said he expects the same level of commitment that sustained the Brigade’s reputation in recent years.
Brigadier General Onu also emphasized the importance of prioritizing soldiers’ welfare. He said improving living conditions, access to training, and support for families will be a key focus of his leadership. He called for loyalty, cooperation, and unity among personnel to enhance the Brigade’s operational readiness and performance.
The ceremony ended with the signing of the handing and taking over notes, followed by the symbolic transfer of the insignia of command. Other highlights included an address to the troops, a Quarter Guard parade, and a group photograph of the new Commander with officers and soldiers of the Brigade.
