The 17 Brigade Command, Natsinta Barracks, Katsina State, witnessed a significant promotion ceremony as two distinguished officers, Fr. Capt. Onumajuru and Imam Muhammad, were officially promoted to the rank of Major.
The ceremony brought together high-ranking officers, senior officers, corps members and special guests in an atmosphere marked by military tradition, honour and spiritual reflection.
Fr. Chibuzor Represents Bishop Gerald Musa
Among those present was Rev. Fr. Chibuzor Victor Somadina, Personal Secretary and Communications Director of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina, who represented the Bishop of Katsina, Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Mamman Musa.
Fr. Somadina was privileged to participate in the promotion ceremony by assisting with the installation of the new rank insignia on the shoulders of Fr. Capt. Onumajuru, formally marking his elevation from the rank of Captain to Major.
Fr. Onumajuru has served as the priest in charge of St. Jacob Catholic Army Chaplaincy, Natsinta Barracks, where he combined his priestly ministry with service to the military community.
Following his promotion, he will continue his ministry and military service at his new posting in Zaria.
“The Son of Man Came to Serve”
During the session of advice and words of encouragement, Rev. Fr. Somadina addressed the newly promoted officers, drawing inspiration from the words of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Mark:
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45
Reflecting on the Scripture passage, Fr. Somadina encouraged the newly promoted officers to understand their new ranks not merely as positions of authority, but as greater opportunities and responsibilities to serve both the Nigerian Army and the wider community.
He urged them to embrace humility, simplicity and contentment, while remaining conscious of their responsibility to serve as spiritual and moral role models to the soldiers under their care.
Ceremony Concludes with Fellowship
The promotion ceremony continued with other formal military activities before concluding with refreshments and a group photograph session.
The occasion brought together the officers present alongside the Brigade General and Commander, Brigadier General IM Ibrahim, for a commemorative photograph.
The promotion of Fr. Capt. Onumajuru and Imam Muhammad marked another significant milestone in their military careers, while the participation of the Catholic Chaplaincy highlighted the continuing place of spiritual and moral leadership within the military community.
The Catholic Diocese of Katsina congratulates the newly promoted officers and wishes them wisdom, courage and grace as they assume their new responsibilities and continue in dedicated service.