By Okosun Dennis
Following the recent approval of postings and redeployments of senior officers by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, the new Commanding Officer (CO) of 65 Battalion, Bonny Cantonment, Victoria Island, Lagos, has assumed duty.
He is Lieutenant Colonel Jeremiah Moreino Bent. He took over on Tuesday, 28th January 2025, from Colonel Mohammed Marwa, who has been posted to Command and Staff College, Jaji Kaduna.
Shortly before his farewell address to troops at the Parade Ground, a handing and taking over ceremony took place in his office, which was witnessed by battalion officers.
Col Marwa handed over the flag as characteristic of the force, a symbol of authority before he decorated the new CO, Lt Col Bent with the battalion’s insignia and accoutrements.
In his brief remarks, Col Marwa, who exuded satisfaction and a deep sense of fulfillment, thanked officers and soldiers for standing behind him during his tenure.
“Today has come, by the grace of Almighty God, I finish my call of duty as your Commanding Officer. I thank you for your support, loyalty, and being dutiful.
“I would not have had a successful tour if not due to your soldierly-like qualities and good behaviour. I am most grateful for your astuteness.
“I entreat you to give the incoming Commanding Officer, the same level of support you gave me as it propels you to greater heights, but certainly, he will do a better job than I did,” Col Marwa reiterated.
To the Magajias, he thanked them for always being there, ensuring that a high level of discipline and cleanliness was maintained at the blocks of residence, urging them to extend maximum cooperation to his successor, Lt Col Bent.
The Quarter guard ceremony was marked with the lowering and hoisting of the new flag symbolizing the completion of the change of baton in the Battalion.
The high point of the handing over was when Col Mohammed Marwa bid farewell to the Battalion Mascot. He took over command of the 65th Battalion on November 7, 2023.
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