The Nigerian Army Corps of Infantry on Friday retired 28 senior officers from active service in a colourful and emotional ceremony at the Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre, Jaji.
The retired officers, the News Agency of Nigeria reports, include 17 Major-Generals and 11 Brigadier-Generals who retired from service after serving the mandatory years of service in the Nigerian Army.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Maj.-Gen. Usman Yusuf, thanked God for the privilege to be among those present on the occasion in good health and in high spirit.
He said the ceremony was a memorable and emotional occasion, reflecting decades of sacrifice, dedication and service to the nation.
“The journey begins the day an individual is commissioned into the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” Yusuf said.
He also lauded the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu for granting approval and organising the pull-out ceremony in honour of retiring generals.
“The gesture indicates that the Army under Shaibu is appreciative of the sacrifices and contributions of its senior officers,” he said.
He also commended the Commander, Infantry Corps, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut for successfully hosting the event.
“When you look at their careers, I remember when they were at the Nigerian Defence Academy and they all contributed to the operational successes, growth and development of the Army.
“Every day in service was a new challenge, a new responsibility and a new experience that moulded us into stronger, more resilient and more capable officers ready for command, instructional and staff appointments,” he said.
He urged serving officers and soldiers to emulate the professionalism, discipline, sacrifice and loyalty of the retiring generals.
Yusuf stated that Nigeria is confronted with more complex security threats and enjoined the Army to remain proactive and operationally ready.
The battlespace is expanding and the Army’s operational commitments continue to grow, and the eyes of the nation and the international community are on the military.
He said, “You must never rest on your oars because the Nigerian Army has built an enviable reputation through courage, resilience and professionalism.”
He was confident that younger officers would build on the legacies of leadership, mentorship and professionalism left by the outgoing generals.
He also described the Chief of Army Staff as a seasoned professional and a visionary leader who could steer the Army through emerging security challenges.
He expressed his gratitude to past and present national leaders for the opportunity to serve and thanked family members for their sacrifices, prayers, patience and support.
“This will always be home to me, to the Infantry Corps. “I am an Infantryman and I will be an Infantryman for the rest of my life – loyal, committed, steadfast,” he said.
