In a major leadership transition within the Nigerian Army (NA) aimed at strengthening operational efficiency, Major General GM Mutkut has officially assumed command as the 59th Commander of the Infantry Corps. The handover ceremony took place on Thursday, 6 November 2025, at the Corps Headquarters, Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State.

The event also marked the formal handover by the outgoing Commander, Major General UA Yusuf, who retired after a distinguished career in the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Delivering his farewell address at the Infantry Headquarters Conference Room, Major General UA Yusuf expressed profound gratitude to God for a fulfilling and successful military career. He extended appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, NAM, for the opportunity to serve as Commander Infantry Corps (CIC). He also commended the officers, soldiers, and civilian staff for their steadfast support throughout his tenure, emphasizing that their cooperation was instrumental in the Corps’ achievements. General Yusuf urged them to extend the same loyalty and dedication to his successor, Major General Mutkut.

In his remarks, the new Commander, Major General GM Mutkut, thanked God for His guidance throughout his military journey and expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged to consolidate on the achievements of his predecessor while advancing the professional standards of the Infantry Corps. Major General Mutkut reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the Corps’ capabilities to effectively address contemporary security challenges and contribute to national stability. He further encouraged all personnel to remain professional, disciplined, and dedicated to duty, assuring them of an inclusive and open-door leadership style.

Highlights of the ceremony included the signing of the handover and takeover notes, presentation of the command flag and infantry insignia, hoisting of the new flag to signify the beginning of a new chapter, inspection of the Quarter Guard, and Major General Mutkut’s inaugural address to officers of the Corps. The event concluded with a group photograph.

The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Major General FS Etim, Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry; Brigadier General AM Umar, Commandant of the Warrant Officers’ Academy; and Brigadier General UF Abubakar, Director of Standards and Evaluation, Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre (HQ ICC), among other senior officers and directors.

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