The Deputy Force Commander (DFC), ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), Colonel IA Akabike, has charged newly promoted Captain MI Ibrahim to remain focused, disciplined and committed to the responsibilities and expectations that accompany his new rank.
A statement signed by Captain Kela Babale ,Public Information Officer Nigerian Contingent, ECOMIG said Colonel Akabike gave the charge on Friday, 11 September 2026, while representing the Force Commander at the decoration ceremony of Captain Maina Ibrahim, held at the Contingent Commander’s Office, Yundum Barracks, The Gambia.
Congratulating Captain Ibrahim on his well deserved promotion, the DFC urged him to celebrate his achievement while remaining conscious of the responsibilities ahead. He advised the newly promoted officer to sustain the dedication, professionalism, discipline and commitment to duty that earned him the elevation.
Colonel Akabike noted that promotion to the rank of Captain is not merely an advancement in status, but a recognition of an officer’s hard work, competence, discipline and commitment to service. He stressed that the new rank comes with increased responsibilities, greater expectations and new professional challenges.
He therefore encouraged Captain Ibrahim to justify the confidence reposed in him by the Service by remaining disciplined, professional and committed to duty, while demonstrating sound leadership and upholding the values and standards of the Nigerian Army and the ECOWAS Mission.
Also speaking at the occasion, the Director, Press and Public Relations, Gambian Armed Forces (GAF), Colonel LK Sanyang, congratulated Captain Ibrahim on his promotion and urged him to redouble his efforts in the discharge of his responsibilities.
Colonel Sanyang reminded the newly promoted officer that career progression in the military comes with corresponding responsibilities and higher expectations. He encouraged him to maintain a high level of professionalism, dedication and leadership as he assumes the duties associated with his new rank.
Earlier, the Nigerian Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Colonel YM Abdullahi, welcomed the distinguished guests to the ceremony. He expressed appreciation to the DFC, Director Press and Public Relations GAF, Commanding Officers Ghana Contingent and 1 Battalion GAF for honouring the occasion despite their demanding schedules.
Lieutenant Colonel Abdullahi congratulated Captain Ibrahim on his promotion and urged him to double his efforts, stressing that every elevation in military service carries with it increased responsibilities and expectations. He further encouraged the officer to continue contributing positively to the effectiveness of the Contingent and the accomplishment of its mission.
In his vote of thanks, Captain MI Ibrahim expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for His grace and for the opportunity to attain the rank of Captain. He conveyed his appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W Shuaibu, for finding him worthy of the promotion and for the confidence reposed in him.
Captain Ibrahim also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Contingent Commander for providing an enabling environment for officers and soldiers of the Contingent to effectively discharge their duties. He acknowledged the leadership and support that continue to contribute to the operational effectiveness of the Contingent and its ability to contribute to national and mission objectives.
The ceremony was attended by the Commanding Officer Ghana Company 10 – Lieutenant Colonel Harry Joe Bavoke; the Commanding Officer – 1 Infantry Battalion GAF – Lieutenant Colonel Dacosta; Lieutenant Colonel O. Ajanaku – Staff Officer from Force Headquarters; as well as senior officers, officers and senior non-commissioned officers of the Nigerian Contingent.
Highlights of the ceremony included the formal decoration of Captain Maina Ibrahim with his new rank, presentation of souvenirs to the Deputy Force Commander and other invited guests, group photographs and light refreshments.
