Kofi Ampeah Woode
Major General (Maj Gen) Matthew Kweku Essien has bid farewell to Ghana Army’s Northern Command (N/COMD) in a colourful send-off ceremony to signify his end of tenure as the General Officer Commanding (GOC), N/COMD, as he handed over Command to Brigadier General (Brig Gen) Frank Nartey Tei.
In his farewell address delivered at Camp Nyohini, Tamale on Tuesday 26 March 2024, Maj Gen MK Essien stated that since his assumption of office as the GOC, the Command’s focus has remained steadfast in achieving its objectives, despite some challenges.
He averred that through unity and teamwork, N/COMD has been able to chalk remarkable successes, which include sustained deployment along Ghana’s Northern Frontiers, successful conduct of exercises, and efficient handling of chieftaincy disputes among others.
He expressed his gratitude to personnel of N/COMD for their support to him during his tenure and urged them to afford same to the new GOC.
The Guest of Honour for the occasion, and the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) – Maj Gen Bismarck Kwasi Onwona in his remarks, emphasised that the N/COMD plays a vital role in the security architecture of the country, and remains the heartbeat of the Ghana Army.
He added that current security situation along the Northern Frontiers, internal security threat within the Command’s Area of Operation, and socioeconomic emerging threats, require sustained security measures, which the Command under Maj Gen Essien had lived up to task.
He further congratulated the new GOC – Brig Gen FN Tei on his new appointment, and expressed his confidence in him, of continuance of the legacy built by his predecessor.
The Northern Regional Minister – Mr Alhassan Shani Shaibu, who was the Special Guest also stated that Maj Gen Essien’s dedication to duty and selfless leadership, had been instrumental in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
He added that the General’s unwavering commitment has been pivotal in warding off threats from the Sahel Region, and that the region would continue to be grateful for his service.
Prior to the send-off parade, COAS commissioned some projects at the Headquarters, Northern Command, which included a refurbished office complex, a new office block and an eagle monument for the Headquarters.
Credit: N/COMD PR
