By Bunmi Yekini
The Government of Chad has conferred the prestigious national honour of “Officer of the National Order of Chad” upon Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali, Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). The award recognizes his exceptional contributions to peace and security in the Lake Chad region.
The accolade, one of the highest honors in Chad, was presented by the Honorable Minister of the Armed Forces, Veterans, and War Victims, Issaka Malloua Djamouss, on behalf of President Field Marshal Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Honorable Minister praised Major General Ali for his leadership in Operation Lake Sanity 2, a mission that dismantled terrorist logistics bases, disrupted their operations, and facilitated the return of refugees and internally displaced persons. “This award is reserved for personalities who have made exceptional contributions to the region’s stability. General Ali’s efforts are a testament to his dedication and leadership,” the Minister noted.
In his acceptance remarks, Major General Ali expressed gratitude for the recognition. “I am deeply honored to receive this award, which I dedicate to the brave troops of the MNJTF. Their valor and sacrifices during Operation Lake Sanity 2 were instrumental in achieving our mission’s success,” he said.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Head of Mission MNJTF and Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, HE Ambassador Mamman Nuhu, Chief of Staff to the President of Chad, Lt. Gen. Ramadan Erdibou, and the Commander of MNJTF Sector 2, Lt. Gen. Djouma Youssouf Mahamat Itno. Other key military leaders and defense officials also graced the occasion.