542 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Retire After 35 Years of Service
A total of 542 senior Non-Commissioned Officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces officially bowed out of active service on Thursday after completing 35 years of meritorious duty to the nation.
The retirement ceremony took place at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Lagos. The outgoing personnel included 362 from the Nigerian Army, 134 from the Nigerian Navy, and 46 from the Nigerian Air Force.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the Commander of TRADOC, Major General Aligbe Obhiozele, commended the retirees for their unwavering commitment and sacrifice.
“Today, we honour your courage, discipline, and selfless service to our great nation. Your 35-year journey embodies the core values of resilience and patriotism that define the Nigerian military,” Obhiozele stated.
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He encouraged the retirees to maintain the standards they upheld in uniform as they reintegrate into civilian life. He also advised them to manage their finances wisely and prioritize their health, emphasizing that society still looks up to them as role models.
The Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman, revealed that the centre has successfully trained over 53,000 personnel since its inception. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for approving key reforms, including the provision of enhanced starter packs for retirees, digitization of records, e-learning advancements, and the upgrading of workshop equipment.
“These reforms have greatly improved our ability to equip service members with the skills necessary for life after the military,” Mamman said.
The retiring officers underwent vocational training in diverse areas and received discharge certificates amid celebration and emotional farewell from their families.
One of the retirees, Sergeant Musa Bello, who trained in agriculture, described the experience as both emotional and hopeful. “The training has prepared me well for civilian life. I plan to invest my gratuity in farming. I’m proud of my service years,” he said.
The ceremony concluded with the ceremonial lowering of flags, marking the end of their military careers and symbolizing their official transition into civilian life.
By PRNigeria
