A new chapter has begun at the 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ilorin, as Brigadier-General Nicholas Rume officially assumed duty as the brigade’s 23rd Commander, pledging to intensify efforts against banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats in Kwara and neighbouring states. His appointment followed a recent posting and redeployment of senior officers across the Nigerian Army, approved by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede. The development was announced in a statement issued on Thursday by Captain Stephen Nwankwo, the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade. According to the statement, the formal handing and taking over ceremony between Brigadier-General Rume and his predecessor, Brigadier-General Ezra Bawa Barkins, took place at the Brigade Headquarters, Sobi Cantonment, Ilorin. The event featured the signing of official documents, a farewell address to the troops by the outgoing commander, and the symbolic presentation of the command flag to the new commander—culminating in the hoisting of a new brigade flag at the Quarter Guard, marking the dawn of a new leadership era. In his farewell remarks, Brigadier-General Barkins expressed appreciation to the COAS for the opportunity to serve, commending the officers and soldiers of the brigade for their dedication, loyalty, and professionalism. “I appreciate every officer and soldier for their unflinching support throughout my tenure,” he said. “I urge you to extend the same level of loyalty and cooperation to my successor to ensure continued operational success.”
Barkins further charged troops to remain disciplined and focused, especially as the brigade intensifies operations to curb banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities across parts of Kwara, Kogi, and Niger States. In his inaugural address, Brigadier-General Rume pledged to build upon his predecessor’s achievements, assuring that he would strengthen collaboration with other security agencies to enhance internal security in the region. “Fighting insecurity requires teamwork, discipline, and professionalism,” Rume stated. “I am committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and safety for our people.”
He emphasized that the 22 Armoured Brigade remains a critical formation in Nigeria’s North Central region, actively supporting counter-banditry, anti-kidnapping, and anti-illegal mining operations. Rume reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to sustaining peace and protecting lives and property in Kwara State and beyond, signaling renewed vigor in the nation’s ongoing battle against insecurity. camilla araujo leaked
