By Hosea Parah, Abuja

In a prestigious ceremony held at the Presidential Palace in Bissau, the President of the Republic of Guinea Bissau, HE Umaro Sissoco Embaló, bestowed the distinguished National Order of Merit, Cooperation and Development Medal upon Brigadier General Al-hassan Muhammad Grema.

In a statement Signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau Acting Director Defence Information Saturday stated that, thehe decorated officer, hailing from Nigeria, served as the pioneer Force Commander of the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission to the Republic of Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB), which was deployed in April 2022.

Nigeria’s own Gen GREMA was the pioneer Force Commander of the ESSMGB which was deployed to Guinea Bissau in April 2022. The deployment was necessitated following the failed coup attempt in the country on 1 February 2022 during which the President and his cabinet were attacked at the Palacio do Governo while holding a meeting.

The medal was awarded to recognize his outstanding leadership and contributions to the stabilization and development of Guinea-Bissau.

During his tenure as Force Commander, Brigadier General Al-hassan Muhammad Grema played a crucial role in promoting peace and stability in Guinea-Bissau. He led the regional ECOWAS forces in providing security and creating a conducive environment for the country’s stability.

Under his command, the ESSMGB successfully carried out its mandate of supporting the restoration of constitutional order, ensuring security for the government and its institutions, and fostering stability in Guinea-Bissau.

The award ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from Guinea-Bissau and ECOWAS, as well as representatives from the diplomatic corps. President Umaro Sissoco Embaló expressed his gratitude to Brigadier General Al-hassan Muhammad Grema for his exemplary service and emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in addressing security challenges in West Africa.

Brigadier General Al-hassan Muhammad Grema expressed his appreciation for the honor and dedicated the medal to the brave men and women who served under his command. He also highlighted the need for continued efforts towards peace and development in Guinea-Bissau, emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration in achieving these goals.

The National Order of Merit, Cooperation and Development Medal is a prestigious recognition in Guinea-Bissau, awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the country’s progress and development. Brigadier General Al-hassan Muhammad Grema’s dedication and leadership were acknowledged by this award, further solidifying his legacy in the region.