By Bavoriat Clara
A new phase of leadership has begun at the 4 Special Forces Command following the assumption of duty by Major General Olurotimi Azubuike Awolo, one of the senior officers recently appointed and redeployed within the Nigerian Army. His arrival signals renewed momentum aimed at enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Command in support of ongoing Nigerian Army (NA) operations.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 4 Special Forces Command Doma, Lieutenant Colonel Ikechukwu Stephen Eze, the handing and taking over ceremony was held on Thursday, 13 November 2025, at the Command Headquarters in Doma, Nasarawa State.
During the ceremony, Maj Gen Awolo expressed gratitude to God and appreciated the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu (NAM), for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the elite Special Forces.
Addressing officers and soldiers who turned out in large numbers to welcome him, the Commander noted that the brief received from the outgoing Commander, Maj Gen Hilary Nzan, particularly on troop conduct and discipline, was impressive. He pledged to sustain and build on these standards while urging commanders at all levels to ensure their actions are professionally justifiable and foster mutual respect devoid of sentiment or rancour. He emphasized that comradeship—one of the hallmarks of Special Forces—remains essential for accomplishing the Command’s mission.
Maj Gen Awolo commended his predecessor, Maj Gen Nzan, whose leadership he described as impactful, adding that he would leverage the gains made to elevate the 4 Special Forces Command to greater heights. He encouraged personnel to remain committed, noting that collective dedication would not only improve performance in the field but also support the COAS’ vision, which prioritizes training, welfare, and equipment. He highlighted that the COAS places special emphasis on tactical commanders, describing them as first responders to operational challenges.
He also appreciated the Chief of Staff, Brig Gen Murtala Abu, staff officers, and affiliated commanders for their resilience in managing the Command’s affairs prior to his assumption of duty.
Maj Gen Awolo becomes the 6th Commander of the 4 Special Forces Command. Until his appointment, he served as the officer in charge of Campaign Planning at the Army Headquarters, Department of Army Operations.
The 4 Special Forces Command has a critical mandate to execute unconventional warfare across the country, either independently or in support of conventional forces. It comprises agile and highly motivated Special Forces brigades and battalions strategically positioned nationwide.
Highlights of the ceremony included the decoration of the new Commander with the Command insignia and the formal handover of the Command Flag by the Chief of Staff, who had been overseeing activities since the retirement of Maj Gen Nzan.
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