Maj.-Gen. John Olusegun-Adeyemo has officially taken over command as the 50th Commander of the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery (NACA), marking a new chapter in the corps’ leadership.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the handing and taking over ceremony took place on Wednesday at the corps headquarters in Kontagora, Niger State.
Outgoing Commander, Maj.-Gen. Zakari Abubakar, who retired from active military service after a distinguished career, formally transferred leadership to Maj.-Gen. Adeyemo.
In his farewell address, Abubakar expressed gratitude to God for a fulfilling career and thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for the privilege to serve as the corps’ commander.
He also commended officers, soldiers, and civilian staff for their loyalty and dedication, urging them to extend the same level of commitment to his successor to sustain and advance the corps’ achievements.
In his inaugural speech, Adeyemo expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, for entrusting him with the leadership responsibility.
He applauded the accomplishments of his predecessor and pledged to consolidate on existing successes to further strengthen the corps’ operational effectiveness in line with the nation’s current security dynamics.
Adeyemo also urged officers and soldiers to uphold discipline, professionalism, and loyalty in the discharge of their duties.
The ceremony featured several symbolic activities, including the signing of handover notes, decoration of the new commander with command insignia, presentation of the corps’ flag, and a commemorative tree-planting exercise by both commanders.
Other highlights included inspection of the Quarter Guard, lowering and hoisting of command flags, and a tour of key facilities and ongoing projects at the headquarters — all marking a smooth and honourable transition in the corps’ leadership.