The former Deputy Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force, Brigadier-General Norma Mellingui, has handed over to his successor, Brigadier-General Bhakit Abdelkarem, at a brief ceremony at the MNJTF office in N’Djamena, Chad.
A statement by the spokesperson, Colonel Timothy Antigha says the Force Commander, Major-General Ibrahim Manu Yusuf during the ceremony commended Brigadier-General Mellingui for the remarkable contributions he made towards the achievement of the MNJTF mandate during his tour of duty.
The Force Commander noted that his erstwhile deputy is a senior Cameroonian Army Officer of considerable administrative and operational acumen, adding that while in MNJTF he was huge asset and a good ambassador of his country.
Major-General Yusuf decorated Brigadier-General Mellingui with Operation YANCIN TAFKI and MNJTF Medals. The Force Commander wished him success in his future endeavours.
Responding during his valedictory speech, Brigadier-General Mellingui thanked the Force Commander for providing the leadership that enabled him contribute his quota towards the attainment of MNJTF mandate. He commended the contributions of MNJTF partners such as the African Union Mission Support Team and Centre for Coordination and Liaison among others, urging them not to relent until the MNJTF successfully accomplishes its mission. He also thanked Chiefs of Cells, officers and soldiers for supporting the mission of the MNJTF through their commitment to duty.
The appointment of Deputy Force Commander in the MNJTF is rotated between Cameroon, Chad and Niger Republic. The new Deputy Commander, Brigadier-General Abdelkarem is from Chad.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
