The First Infantry Battalion of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) on Thursday welcomed Lieutenant Colonel Simon B. Nyante, as the Commanding Officer (CO) of the Battalion, taking over from Col. Albert S. Ogaja.

At a colourful pull-out ceremony held at the parade square of the Unit at Michel Camp, the outgoing Commanding Officer handed over the First Infantry Battalion’s Colour to the new Commander.

Col. Ogaja, who had served as CO of the First Infantry Battalion for more than three years, said it was a great privilege to have served with the gallant officers, men and women of a ready and willing family.

He said the Unit, under his command, was able to achieve many accomplishments, both home and abroad, including the establishment of a welfare fund, first cool water project and the Agbawu accommodation block.

Col. Ogaja commended the GAF High Command for entrusting the Unit to his care and the continuous empowerment to offer a modest service to the country.

He said Lt. Col. Nyante was a seasoned officer with the right capabilities and mindset and the leadership to lead the Unit to new heights.

He said it was necessary for the troop to embrace and support the New CO as he took over with fresh ideas and vigour.

Brigadier General A.Y. Nsiah, the General Officer Commanding the Southern Command, urged the new Commander to treat his soldiers as humanly as possible, “not treating them as articles or chattels.’’

He urged the Unit to support the new CO to succeed in whichever way possible as he could not do the work all by himself.

He urged Lt. Col. Nyante to remember God Almighty in all he does, adding; “You will need Him”.