They were decorated by Major General Lang Tombong Tamba, the Chief of Defence Staff of the Armed Forces at the Yahya Jammeh Joint Officers Mess in Kotu. The promotion is said to be the largest so far in the history of the Gambian Army.

22 people were promoted to rank of captain, 43 to lieutenant and 14 to second lieutenants.

In a statement shortly after the decoration exercise, Major General Tamba reminded the newly promoted officers their promotion now subjects them to serious challenges, adding that selfless service, dedication to duty and unflinching loyalty are among the most fundamental attributes of a commissioned officer.

CDS Tamba advised them to discharge their duties with respect and diligence and always put the nation and welfare of the troops they command first before their own. The colourful ceremony was graced by Hon Fatoumata Jahumpa Ceesay, the Speaker of National Assembly, Secretaries of State, National Assembly members, head of the Pakistan Military Team, family members and relatives of the newly promoted officers.