Major General Godwin Mutkut officially assumed command as the new Force Commander (FC) of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) after a handover ceremony at the MNJTF Headquarters, Farcha, in N’Djamena, Chad, on Thursday, 23 January 2025. Major General Mutkut took over from Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali, whose tenure was marked by significant achievements in strengthening regional security and counterterrorism efforts across the Lake Chad Basin.

In his inaugural address, Major General Mutkut expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him by the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) and the contributing member states. He pledged to build on the successes of his predecessors and continue advancing the MNJTF’s mission of promoting peace and stability in the region. “I am honoured to take on this responsibility and committed to working closely with all stakeholders to consolidate our gains and address the evolving security challenges in the Lake Chad Basin,” Major General Mutkut stated.

In his valedictory remarks, the former FC, Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali, congratulated his successor and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the MNJTF to greater heights. He noted that he was handing over the mantle of leadership to an accomplished General with vast operational experience as a former Commander of Sector 3 MNJTF and General Officer Commanding 8 Division Nigerian Army as well as the Force Commander of Operation HADARIN DAJI in Nigeria. He said he has confidence that his successor would build on the successes already made since he understood the security setting and dynamics within the Chad Basin Region and would give his best in the campaign against terrorism in the region.

Major General Godwin Mutkut is a seasoned, distinguished senior Nigerian Army (NA) senior military officer, renowned for his extensive operational experience, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to duty. He is also regarded as a dogged fighter, having commanded the 8 Division NA, a Division known for tormenting terrorists and bandits in North West Nigeria. He is bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the new role, having held various command and operational positions within the Nigerian Armed Forces. His appointment underscores the commitment of member states towards ensuring capable leadership in addressing the complex security dynamics within the Lake Chad region.