Army Shakes Up Command: Rume Takes Over 22 Brigade, Promises Peace In North-Central

A new era of leadership has commenced at the 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, as Brigadier General Nicholas Rume officially assumed duty as the 23rd Commander of the formation. The change of command took place on Thursday at the Sobi Cantonment, Ilorin, following the recent redeployment of senior officers approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.

According to Ireporter Online, the formal handing-over ceremony, presided over by the outgoing Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Ezra Bawa Barkins, featured the signing of handover notes, a farewell address to troops, and the symbolic presentation of the command flag to the new commander. The event concluded with the hoisting of a new brigade flag, signifying the start of a fresh command phase.

In his farewell remarks, Brigadier General Barkins expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff for the opportunity to lead the brigade. He also commended the officers and soldiers for their steadfast loyalty and dedication throughout his tenure. Barkins urged the troops to maintain their discipline and extend unwavering support to his successor, emphasizing that the brigade’s operations had significantly contributed to combating banditry, kidnapping, and illegal mining across Kwara, Kogi, and Niger States.

Upon assuming command, Brigadier General Rume lauded the achievements of his predecessor and pledged to consolidate on existing successes by strengthening collaboration with other security agencies. He reaffirmed his commitment to intensifying operations against banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats within the North-Central region.

“Addressing insecurity requires teamwork, discipline, and professionalism,” Rume stated. “We will continue to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and ensure the safety of lives and property across Kwara and neighbouring states.”

The Nigerian Army, through its recent command reshuffle, reiterated its resolve to enhance operational efficiency and sustain regional stability. The 22 Armoured Brigade remains a key formation supporting joint operations with other security agencies in ongoing efforts to secure the North-Central zone.