A formal handover ceremony was held on Thursday at the Maroua ceremonial ground to mark the appointment of Brigadier General Agha Robinson Ndong as commander of the 4th Joint Military Region (RMIA4) in Cameroon’s Far North.
The event was attended by Minister Delegate at the Presidency for Defence Joseph Beti Assomo, the Governor of the Far North, the representative of Nigeria’s Borno State Governor, Army Chief of Staff General René Claude Meka, as well as senior civil and military officials.
A Veteran Officer with Field Experience
At 64, General Ndong brings decades of operational experience. A graduate of the “Bravery and Perseverance” class of the Combined Arms Military Academy (EMIA), he previously commanded the 5th Joint Military Region in Bamenda and the 3rd Joint Military Region in Garoua.
His background as a field officer is highlighted by colleagues who describe him as rigorous and focused on operational command.
Security Priorities in the Far North
General Ndong assumes leadership at a critical moment. His mission includes:
- Overseeing security for Cameroon’s October 12 presidential election
- Intensifying the fight against Boko Haram and its affiliated factions
- Combating the spread of weapons and ammunition
- Protecting civilians, who remain the most affected by violence and insecurity
The Far North has endured more than a decade of attacks linked to Boko Haram, including village raids, crop burnings, kidnappings for ransom, and mass displacement of communities. These challenges continue to weaken social cohesion and slow development in the region.
Continuity and Reinforcement
General Ndong replaces Major General Saly Mohamadou, who was widely praised for his work with local populations and for consolidating gains against Boko Haram. His tenure was marked by closer ties between the defence forces and communities, contributing to improved security in several districts.
The change of command has been framed as an act of continuity and reinforcement. Military leaders reaffirmed that the Cameroonian army, guided by its motto “Honour and Fidelity”, remains committed to defending national sovereignty and restoring peace in the Far North.
