The Nigerian Army has renamed the Headquarters of the 13 Brigade, Akim Barracks, in Calabar, Cross River State, after the late former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, announced the renaming on Tuesday during a ceremony attended by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Cross River State Deputy Governor, Peter Odey; and the widow of the late general, Fatima Attahiru.

Shaibu said the decision was to immortalise Attahiru in recognition of his courage, professionalism, discipline and contributions to the Nigerian Army and the country.

He described the late military officer as an exemplary leader and patriot whose commitment to national service remained worthy of lasting recognition, despite his brief tenure as Chief of Army Staff.

The army chief urged officers and soldiers of the newly renamed Ibrahim Attahiru Barracks to uphold the values of courage, integrity, discipline and selfless service associated with the late general.

In his remarks, Deputy Governor Odey described the renaming as a national obligation of remembrance, noting that Attahiru’s leadership and commitment to the welfare of his men left an enduring impact on the military.

He said the honour would continue to inspire generations of military personnel to uphold professionalism, loyalty and dedication to national security.

The widow, Fatima Attahiru, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army, describing the gesture as a profound honour and lasting recognition of her husband’s sacrifices and service to the nation.

Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru, who was Nigeria’s 21st Chief of Army Staff, died in a military aircraft crash in Kaduna State on May 21, 2021, alongside other military personnel.