Nigerian Army Immortalises Late General Attahiru, Renames 13 Brigade Headquarters

The Nigerian Army has renamed Akim Barracks, the headquarters of the 13 Brigade in Calabar, Cross River State, after former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru, in recognition of his contributions and service to the country.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, announced the decision on Tuesday during a ceremony attended by senior military officers, government officials and members of the late general’s family.

Those present included the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Cross River State Deputy Governor, Peter Odey; and Attahiru’s widow, Fatima Attahiru.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Shaibu explained that the decision was aimed at preserving the legacy of the late military chief, whose career was characterised by courage, discipline, professionalism and dedication to national service.

He recalled that Attahiru assumed leadership of the Nigerian Army during a challenging period in the country’s security history, when he prioritised operational effectiveness, personnel welfare and professionalism within the military.

The army chief noted that although Attahiru’s tenure and life were tragically cut short, his commitment to duty and the principles he upheld continued to inspire members of the Nigerian Army.

Shaibu added that the newly named Ibrahim Attahiru Barracks would serve as a lasting reminder to serving and future military personnel of the importance of integrity, courage, discipline and selfless service.

He also urged the Commander of the 13 Brigade and other military personnel stationed at the facility to uphold the late general’s values through their leadership, professional conduct and relationship with members of their host communities.

Speaking at the event, Cross River State Deputy Governor Peter Odey described the renaming as an important national responsibility aimed at preserving the memory of a military leader whose brief tenure left a lasting impact on the Nigerian Army.

Odey described Attahiru as a dedicated soldier who led from the front and placed considerable importance on the welfare and operational effectiveness of his troops.

He challenged personnel of the newly named barracks to demonstrate professionalism, loyalty, discipline and courage while carrying out their responsibilities.

The deputy governor also reaffirmed the Cross River State Government’s commitment to supporting security agencies through improved welfare, training, equipment and operational readiness.

Meanwhile, Fatima Attahiru expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army for honouring her late husband, describing the gesture as a profound recognition of his sacrifices and service to Nigeria.

She noted that her husband’s dedication to the country would continue to serve as an inspiration to generations of military personnel.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Ibrahim Attahiru, who served as Nigeria’s 21st Chief of Army Staff, died on May 21, 2021, alongside other military personnel when a Nigerian Air Force aircraft crashed in Kaduna State.

The decision to rename the 13 Brigade headquarters after the late general is expected to preserve his memory and reinforce the values of service, sacrifice and commitment within the Nigerian military.