In a significant milestone for the Nigerian military, 542 senior Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) officially retired from active duty after serving the nation for 35 years. The retirement ceremony took place on Thursday at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) in Oshodi, Lagos.
The retiring personnel included:
- 362 soldiers from the Nigerian Army,
- 134 officers from the Nigerian Navy,
- And 46 airmen from the Nigerian Air Force.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Major General Aligbe Obhiozele of TRADOC praised the retirees, highlighting their years of courage, discipline, and unwavering patriotism.
- “Today, we celebrate your courage, discipline and selfless service to our great nation,” Obhiozele said. “Your 35-year journey embodies the finest military traditions of resilience and patriotism.”
He urged the retired personnel to maintain high standards of discipline and responsibility in civilian life, cautioning against poor financial decisions and health negligence.
Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman, Commandant of NAFRC, disclosed that the centre has trained over 53,000 personnel since its inception. He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for approving key upgrades, including:
Improved starter packs for retirees,
- Digitization of service records,
- Upgraded e-learning systems,
- And modern vocational equipment.
“These interventions have significantly enhanced our ability to prepare servicemen for a successful transition to civilian life,” Mamman noted.
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Each retiree underwent training in vocational skills and received discharge certificates amid cheers from family members and comrades. Many described the moment as both emotional and hopeful.
Sergeant Musa Bello, one of the retirees, said:
“The training has prepared me well for civilian life. I was trained in farming and I hope to invest my gratuity into it. I am proud of my years in the military.”
The ceremony concluded with the symbolic lowering of the Nigerian military flag, officially marking the end of service for the 542 officers.
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