Writing By Daniel Karlmax, Editing By Godwin Duru
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to adopting dynamic and effective strategies to dismantle criminal elements threatening national peace and security.
He also commended the Ham Chiefdom for honoring former Chief of Defense Staff, General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), with the traditional title of Sarkin Yaki (Defense Chief) of the Ham Kingdom in Kaduna State.
The Chief of Army Staff, represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) One Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General David Saraso, conveyed this during the coronation ceremony held at the Kpop Ham Palace in Kwoi, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The turbaning ceremony also saw four other illustrious sons and daughters of the Ham Chiefdom, including the Lord Mayor of Leeds City, United Kingdom, Mrs. Abigail Marshall Katung, being conferred with various traditional titles.
General Oluyede stated that these approaches, centered on society would enable better collaboration with government agencies, stakeholders, and the public through intelligence gathering.
This, he noted, would create a more secure environment conducive for socio- economic development.
He added that their visit to honour the former Defense Chief was a source of pride, noting that Gen. Agwai rose to the pinnacle of military leadership during his service.
The service chief added that receiving an equivalent honour from his community demonstrated that he left a mark not only in the military, but also within his roots.
The Army Chief expressed confidence that Gen. Agwai (rtd) would excel in his new role, citing his vast experience and leadership.
In his vote of thanks, Gen. Agwai assured the paramount ruler of Ham and custodian of Nok culture that he would fulfill his responsibilities diligently.
He explained that his role as Sarkin Yaki symbolizes an advisory position on security and defense matters to the traditional leadership—an important role beyond his military career.
“I thank God that I joined the army on my own, and by His grace, I rose to become a four-star general and Chief of Defense Staff. Today, being recognized by my humble ethnic group and made their Chief of Defense is a great honor,” he said.
“To the younger generation: if you serve your community, your locality, and your nation, you will never be forgotten. It’s not about wealth—it’s about service. When you serve your people, they will remember you.
“In military tradition, becoming Chief of Defense Staff is the highest honor—you become the president’s top adviser on defense matters. Now, I’m the Chief Adviser to the Kpop Ham on security and defense matters. What a great thing,” he concluded.
Addressing the audience after her installation as Gimbiya (Princess) of Ham, the Lord Mayor of Leeds City, UK, and wife of the Senator representing Kaduna South, Mrs. Abigail Marshall Katung expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the traditional council for the honor.
She emphasized the critical role of education and inclusion in nation-building and pledged to continue to inspire young women and youth.
The new Gimbiya of Ham Chiefdom called on leaders and title holders to foster inclusive environments, noting that women are the bedrock of every nation.
She emphasized that with focus and determination, women can rise to any position, especially in today’s world of boundless opportunities.
Other individuals conferred with traditional titles included:
Dr. Gideon Jock as Hasken Jaba (Light of Ham)
Barrister Deborah Usman as Jakadiyan Jaba (Ambassador)
Engineer. Dogara Gyet as Jagaban (Forerunner of Ham)
Earlier, the paramount ruler of Ham Chiefdom, His Royal Highness Jonathan Maude, described the coronation as a strategic initiative by the traditional council to reconnect with distinguished sons and daughters of Ham.
He said the goal was to strengthen community ties and promote unity and development within Ham Nation, Nigeria, and the global community.
Daniel Karlmax
