In a poignant Regimental Dinner Night ceremony held in Abuja on Tuesday, a significant chapter in the Nigerian Army came to a close as a total of 113 Army Generals retired from service.
The distinguished group comprised one General, one Lieutenant General, 67 Major Generals, and 44 Brigadier Generals.
The Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, took center stage to express profound appreciation for the invaluable contributions of the retiring officers and commend the Nigerian Army for its pivotal role in fostering democracy in the nation. Badaru lauded the Army’s exemplary standing in the West African region, urging other military services in the vicinity to emulate its positive influence.
In a statement released by the Director of Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the minister emphasized the importance of the Armed Forces’ unwavering loyalty to the constitution and their continued support for the nation’s democratic development.
“The minister charged members of the Armed Forces to remain loyal and sustain the culture of supporting democracy in Nigeria and across the shores,” the statement read.
“He added that the disposition of the Armed Forces towards democracy had made it a shining example in West Africa and an influencer in the comity of nations.”
During the ceremony, Badaru extended gratitude to the retired and retiring officers for their sacrifices and steadfast commitment to the nation’s stability. He reassured them of prompt pension payments, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing the well-being of both serving and retired personnel.
In his address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the defence minister for their unwavering support. He reiterated the Nigerian Army’s unalloyed loyalty to the President and the nation in fulfilling its constitutional roles, particularly in safeguarding the territorial integrity of Nigeria.
As the retired senior officers embark on a new phase, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja advised them to reflect on their successful journey in the “noble profession of arms” and appreciate both God and the Nigerian Army for their meritorious service to the nation.
The grand retirement ceremony marked a significant moment in the annals of the Nigerian Army, commemorating the dedicated service of these distinguished officers.