Presidential Guards Brigade

The Presidential Guards Brigade, also known as the Brigade of Guards, is one of the most prestigious and elite units within the Nigerian Army, tasked with the protection and security of the President of Nigeria and other high-profile individuals. This unit not only performs protective duties but also carries out ceremonial roles, embodying the military’s presence at state events and symbolizing the nation’s pride and sovereignty.

The Presidential Guards Brigade

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Historical Background

The Presidential Guards Brigade traces its origins to September 1962, when it was established as the Federal Guards. The primary purpose of its formation was to carry out security and ceremonial duties in Lagos and later, Abuja. This role mirrored that of the British Household Division in London, serving as a visual and operational representation of military power and discipline.

In May 1966, under the leadership of Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, the brigade was renamed the National Guards. This period was tumultuous, with significant political and military upheaval in Nigeria. The unit became entangled in controversy, particularly during the events leading to the assassination of Aguiyi-Ironsi on July 29, 1966. Soldiers from the National Guards were involved in the operation that led to his death, a moment that underscored the brigade’s influence and the complexities of its command structure.

Over the years, the brigade has evolved, both in its duties and its significance. It has played a crucial role in various national events and has been involved in significant historical moments, such as the solemn return of President Umaru Yar’Adua to Nigeria shortly before his death in 2010.

Composition and Structure

The Presidential Guards Brigade is composed of several units, each with specific responsibilities:

• Headquarters: The central command structure of the brigade, overseeing all operations and coordinating between units.
• 3 Guards Battalion: One of the primary battalions, responsible for various operational duties.
• 7 Guards Battalion (Lungi Barracks, Maitama): Positioned in a strategic location, this battalion plays a key role in the protection of the capital.
• 26 Guards Battalion: Another vital component of the brigade, contributing to the overall mission of the unit.
• 102 Guards Battalion (Suleja): Positioned in Suleja, this battalion provides additional security and operational support.
• 176 Guards Battalion (Gwagwalada): Located in Gwagwalada, this battalion is essential for the defense of the Federal Capital Territory.
• 177 Guards Battalion (Keffi): Based in Keffi, this battalion enhances the security coverage of the brigade.
• Guards Brigade Medical Centre (Yakubu Gowon Barracks, Mambilla, Asokoro): Provides medical support to the brigade and is crucial for maintaining the health and readiness of the troops.
• Guards Brigade Band: A ceremonial unit that represents the brigade in national events and parades.
• Presidential Pipe Band: Adds a unique cultural element to the brigade’s ceremonial duties.
• Silent Drill Platoon: Known for its precise and disciplined performances, this unit showcases the high level of training and discipline within the brigade.

Protective Duties

The primary mission of the Presidential Guards Brigade is the protection of the President of Nigeria. However, the brigade’s responsibilities extend beyond this, including the protection of other key figures in the Nigerian government:

• President of Nigeria: The brigade’s foremost responsibility is to ensure the safety and security of the President.
• First Lady of Nigeria: The brigade provides protection to the First Lady, ensuring her safety at all times.
• Vice President of Nigeria: The Vice President is another key individual under the brigade’s protection.
• President of Senate: As part of the presidential line of succession, the President of the Senate is also protected by the brigade.
• Speaker House of Representatives: The brigade ensures the safety of the Speaker, a crucial figure in the Nigerian government.
• Chief Justice of Nigeria: The Chief Justice, being a vital part of the judiciary, is also under the protection of the brigade.

The brigade works closely with the Nigeria Police Force to secure areas within the Federal Capital Territory, ensuring the safety of all governmental activities.

Ceremonial Roles and Traditions

The Presidential Guards Brigade is deeply embedded in the ceremonial fabric of Nigeria. The brigade is responsible for various ceremonial duties, including:

• Guard of Honour: The brigade mounts the guard of honor during national events such as Armed Forces Day and Independence Day parades. These events are significant in displaying national pride and the strength of the Nigerian military.
• State Visits: The brigade provides ceremonial honors during state visits by foreign dignitaries. This includes inspections and performances that showcase Nigeria’s military discipline and cultural heritage.
• Changing of the Guard: A weekly ceremony held outside the Presidential Villa in Aso Rock, this event symbolizes the vigilance and readiness of the brigade. It is a popular event, drawing attention from both locals and tourists.
• National Flag Ceremonies: The brigade is responsible for raising and lowering the national flag at various ceremonies, a duty that underscores the unit’s role as a symbol of national pride.

A performance by the presidential guards brigade

The brigade’s ceremonial role is not limited to Nigeria alone. It has also represented the country internationally, such as during the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in August 2019, where the brigade’s drill unit and band performed. This event was a significant showcase of the brigade’s skills and Nigeria’s rich military traditions.

Regimental Dinner and Social Functions

The Presidential Guards Brigade has its own traditions, one of which is the annual regimental dinner. This event is held at the brigade’s mess hall, known as the Scorpion Mess, and is a formal gathering that reflects the camaraderie and discipline of the unit. The dinner is a time for reflection, celebration, and recognition of the brigade’s achievements over the year.

In 2016, a special regimental dinner was held to honor the victories over Boko Haram, a terrorist group that has posed significant challenges to Nigeria. President Muhammadu Buhari was the guest of honor at this event, where the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai, presented a captured Boko Haram flag to the brigade, symbolizing the military’s victories and the ongoing struggle against terrorism.

Sports Competitions

The Guards Brigade Sporting Competition is an annual event that fosters camaraderie and physical fitness among the brigade’s units. The competition includes a variety of sports such as football, basketball, volleyball, table tennis, boxing, judo, taekwondo, and a combat relay race. This event not only promotes physical fitness but also enhances the spirit of teamwork and competition within the brigade.

Units that have participated in past competitions include the 176 Battalion, 177 Guards Battalion, 102 Battalion, and the Guards Brigade Garrison. These competitions are integral to maintaining the physical readiness and morale of the troops.

Brigade Cemetery

The Guards Brigade cemetery, located off Murtala Muhammed Way in Abuja, serves as a final resting place for serving and retired brigade personnel. Inaugurated in 2017 to commemorate Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the cemetery was part of an initiative by General Buratai, who directed all army formations to set up their own unit cemeteries.

The cemetery comprises a cenotaph, a memorial hall, and a guard house for soldiers on duty. It stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the brigade and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Controversies

While the Presidential Guards Brigade is primarily known for its protective and ceremonial roles, it has not been without controversy. In late 2018, the brigade was accused of carrying out a massacre in Abuja against Shia Muslims who were members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN). The protesters were demanding the release of their leader, Ibrahim Zakzaky, who had been detained since December 2016. The incident resulted in the deaths of at least 45 IMN protesters and sparked widespread condemnation.

This event highlighted the challenges faced by the brigade in balancing its protective duties with maintaining public order. The incident remains a contentious chapter in the brigade’s history and has prompted discussions about the use of military force in civil matters.

Command Structure and Notable Commanders

The Presidential Guards Brigade has been led by various commanders throughout its history, each bringing their own leadership style and vision to the unit. Notable commanders include:

• Brigadier Wellington Duke Bassey (September 1962 – 1968)
• Colonel Joseph Nanven Garba (1968 – February 1976)
• Brigadier Mamman Jiya Vatsa (February 1976 – 1979)
• Colonel Mohammed Kaliel (1981–1984)
• Lieutenant Colonel Abdulazeez Sabo Aliyu (1984–1985)
• Colonel John Mark Inienger (1988–1989)
• Brigadier General Bashir Salihi Magashi (1993–1996)
• Major General Babagana Monguno (August 2007 – January 2009)
• Brigadier General A.S. Mustapha (2009–2010)
• Major General Musa Sani Yusuf (2014–2018)
• Brigadier General Umar Thomas Musa (2018 – 4 August 2019)
• Brigadier General Mohammed Takuti Usman (4 August 2019 – 20 January 2023)
• Brigadier General Aminu Umar (20 January 2023 – 4 July 2023)
• Brigadier General Adebisi Olusola Onasanya (4 July 2023 – present)

Sources :

• Wikipedia
• Nigeria Ministry of Defence