By Victor Akaa.
The Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre (NAHFC) yesterday welcomed a new leader, as Major General Gbemiga Adesina took over as its third Director General (DG).
Lieutenant Colonel Felicia Daniel, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations NAHFC in a statement on Wednesday said, the former Corps Commander of Signals officially assumed leadership from his predecessor, Major General Obinna Ajunwa, at the NAHFC Complex in Giri, Abuja.
During the handing-over ceremony, Major General Ajunwa delivered a farewell address, expressing his gratitude to the Centre’s staff, including the former Deputy Director General and Provost, Deans of various faculties, Directors, Deputy Directors, senior officers, officers, Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM), soldiers, and Corps members.
He reflected on his tenure as the second Director General of NAHFC, highlighting the Centre’s journey and the significance of the successful handover.
General Ajunwa noted that the Centre had faced challenges in the past, but with the support of all officers, they were able to find a new path.
He expressed confidence that the incoming leadership would elevate the Centre to new heights, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the Centre’s unique nature.
“It is essential to note that the Centre is not a traditional military formation, and many approaches that work elsewhere may not apply here, since there is considerable flexibility in managing an institution like NAHFC,” he stated.
Major General Adesina, in his remarks, expressed his privilege at being appointed as DG of NAHFC by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede. He thanked his predecessor, coursemate, and friend, Major General Ajunwa, as well as the senior officers of the Centre, for their commendable work.
He noted that discussions with the outgoing DG indicated that the Centre has established a clear direction, capable of outlining 10-year Strategic Plans for the Nigerian Army, signifying substantial progress.
The new Director General reiterated the Centre’s commitment to continuing its efforts to support the Nigerian Army’s objectives and vision, in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy.
He noted that the philosophy provides a clear direction for the Nigerian Army’s transformation and development, emphasizing leadership by example, combat readiness, and joint and multi-agency collaboration.
As part of the activities marking the Handing and Taking Over Ceremony, Major General Adesina participated in a Tree Planting Exercise, which was initiated by his predecessor.
This symbolic gesture aims to beautify the Centre, promote environmental friendliness, and protect against desert encroachment.
The ceremony reached its climax with the signing of Handing and Taking Over Notes, decoration of the new DG with the Centre’s Insignia, handing over of the Centre’s flag, presentation and inspection of Quarter Guard, and presentation of souvenirs to posted-out Senior Officers by the outgoing DG.
The incoming DG also presented souvenirs to the outgoing DG and Corps Members.
The Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre looks forward to a new era of growth and development under the leadership of Major General Adesina, as it continues to play a vital role in supporting the Nigerian Army’s objectives and vision, Enugu Reporters noted.
