The Nigerian Army has effected a change of leadership at the 1 Brigade Headquarters, Gusau, Zamfara State, with Brigadier General Jimoh Mustapha officially assuming duty as the new Commander.
General Mustapha takes over from Brigadier General Timothy M. Opurum, who has been redeployed to Headquarters 1 Division Nigerian Army, Kaduna, where he now serves as Chief of Staff. General Opurum had taken charge of the 1 Brigade on August 26, 2024, and during his tenure, he led several decisive operations against banditry and other security threats across Zamfara and adjoining states.
In his farewell address to officers and men of the Brigade, General Opurum urged troops to remain steadfast and relentless in their duty to defend Nigeria, noting that loyalty and discipline remain the pillars of the Army’s successes. “Extend the same loyalty you accorded me to my successor,” he charged.
Brigadier General Jimoh Mustapha, until this new posting, was the Chief of Staff at the Theatre Command, Operation Fantsan Yamma. A seasoned officer with wide operational experience, his appointment is seen as a strategic move to reinforce ongoing military operations in the Northwest and further degrade the capacity of armed groups threatening peace in the region.
The colourful change-of-command ceremony was marked by addresses to senior officers, troops, and members of the Brigade community. In his remarks, Brig Gen Opurum expressed deep appreciation to officers, soldiers, and the families of the barracks community for their support throughout his command.
Highlights of the event included the symbolic handover of the Brigade flag, signifying a seamless transition of authority, a farewell quarter guard mounted in Opurum’s honour, and a sendforth dinner where souvenirs were presented and goodwill messages poured in, extolling his leadership, courage, and commitment.
In his acceptance speech, Brig Gen Mustapha pledged to consolidate on the gains recorded under his predecessor while introducing fresh strategies to intensify the fight against banditry and criminality in Zamfara and beyond. He assured troops of his readiness to lead with dedication and urged for unity and resilience in tackling security challenges confronting the Northwest.
