Army Decorates Hajara Egbunu as First Female Infantry Corps Army Warrant Officer

Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Army has achieved a historic milestone by promoting Army Warrant Officer Hajara Egbunu, the first female soldier from the elite Infantry Corps and the Nigerian Army Women Command to attain this prestigious rank.

The promotion ceremony, held on Friday, 3rd January 2025, at the Nigerian Army Women Command Conference Room in Abuja, was presided over by Brigadier General Mathias Amatso, Commander of the Nigerian Army Women Command. Brigadier General Amatso decorated Egbunu with her new rank badge, commending her professionalism, dedication, and effectiveness.

Lieutenant Maureen Ogbuka, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the Nigerian Army Women Command, noted in a statement that Brigadier General Amatso described Egbunu’s promotion as a testament to her hard work and a source of inspiration for younger soldiers. He urged her to uphold discipline and continue exemplifying the core values of the Nigerian Army.

In her acceptance speech, Army Warrant Officer Egbunu expressed gratitude to God, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, and Brigadier General Amatso for their unwavering support and guidance, which she credited for her career growth. She also reaffirmed her commitment to her duties as the Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) of the Command.

The event concluded with a celebratory group photograph and refreshments, symbolising a progressive step toward gender inclusion and representation in the Nigerian Army.

This landmark achievement underscores the growing recognition of women’s contributions to the military and sets a precedent for female soldiers aspiring to reach higher ranks.