Brigadier-General Rume Assumes Command of 22 Armoured Brigade, Pledges Stronger Anti-Banditry Operations
Brigadier-General Nicholas Rume has officially assumed duty as the 23rd Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ilorin, with a promise to intensify operations against banditry and other security threats across Kwara and neighboring states.
His appointment followed the recent posting and redeployment of senior officers within the Nigerian Army, as approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.
The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, announced the development in a statement on Thursday.
He said 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 the handing and taking-over notes, a farewell address to troops by the outgoing Commander, and the symbolic presentation of the command flag to the incoming Commander,” the statement read.
The ceremony concluded with the hoisting of a new Brigade flag at the Quarter Guard, signifying the beginning of a new leadership era for the formation.
In his farewell remarks, Brigadier-General Barkins expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for the opportunity to serve and commended the officers and soldiers of the Brigade for their loyalty and professionalism.
“I appreciate every officer and soldier for their unflinching support throughout my tenure. I urge you to extend the same level of loyalty and cooperation to my successor to ensure continued operational success,” he said.
He also urged the troops to remain disciplined and focused as the Brigade intensifies operations to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities across its operational areas covering parts of Kwara, Kogi, and Niger States.
In his remarks, Brigadier-General Rume assured that he would consolidate on the achievements of his predecessor while enhancing collaboration with other security agencies to strengthen internal security.
“Fighting insecurity requires teamwork, discipline, and professionalism. I am committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and safety for our people,” Rume stated.
He reaffirmed that the 22 Armoured Brigade remains a vital formation in the North Central region, actively supporting counter-banditry, anti-kidnapping, and anti-illegal mining operations, and pledged sustained efforts to protect lives and property in Kwara State and beyond.
