In a significant leadership transition within the Nigerian Army (NA) aimed at strengthening operational effectiveness, Major General GM Mutkut has officially assumed command as the 59th Commander, Infantry Corps. The handover and takeover ceremony took place on Thursday, 6 November 2025, at the Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre (ICC), Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Ajemasu Jingina, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre, the event marked the formal handover from the outgoing Commander, Major General UA Yusuf, who concluded his illustrious military service after decades of dedicated service to the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
In his valedictory remarks, Major General UA Yusuf expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God for a rewarding and impactful military career. He also thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede NAM, for the confidence reposed in him to lead the Infantry Corps. The outgoing Commander lauded the officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of the Corps for their steadfast support and professionalism throughout his tenure, noting that their collective effort contributed significantly to the Corps’ achievements. He urged them to extend the same level of loyalty and cooperation to his successor.
Upon taking over, Major General GM Mutkut expressed appreciation to God for His guidance throughout his career and to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for entrusting him with the critical responsibility of leading the elite Infantry Corps. He pledged to build upon the achievements of his predecessor by sustaining professionalism, discipline, and operational readiness within the Corps. Major General Mutkut further emphasized his commitment to an inclusive and open-door leadership style, while encouraging personnel to remain loyal, focused, and mission-oriented in confronting emerging security challenges across the nation.
The ceremony featured key highlights, including the signing of the handing and taking over notes, presentation of the command flag and infantry insignia, hoisting of the new command flag, and inspection of the Quarter Guard by the new Commander. Major General Mutkut also delivered his maiden address to officers of the Corps before the ceremony concluded with a group photograph.
The well-attended event drew several dignitaries, including Major General FS Etim, Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Infantry; Brigadier General AM Umar, Commandant, Warrant Officers’ Academy; and Brigadier General UF Abubakar, Director of Standards and Evaluation, Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre, alongside other senior officers, commanders, and staff of the Centre.
