Nigerian Army Pulls Out 28 Retired Senior Officers

The Nigerian Army Corps of Infantry on Friday disengaged 28 senior officers from active service in a colourful and emotional ceremony at the Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre, Jaji.
The retired officers, according to the News Agency of Nigeria, were 17 Major-Generals and 11 Brigadier-Generals who retired from service after serving the mandatory years of service in the Nigerian Army.
Maj.-Gen. Usman Yusuf, representing the retirees, thanked God for the privilege to be among those present on the occasion in good health and high spirits.

He described the ceremony as a memorable and emotional occasion, reflective of decades of sacrifice, dedication and service to the nation.
“The journey starts the day an individual is commissioned into the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” Yusuf said.
He commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu for approving and organising the pull-out ceremony in honour of retiring generals.
“The gesture shows that the Army under Shaibu is grateful for the sacrifices and contributions of its senior officers,” he said.
Yusuf also commended the Commander, Infantry Corps, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut for the successful hosting of the event.
“Looking 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.
“Each day in service brought new challenges, new responsibilities and new experiences that forged us into stronger, more resilient and capable officers ready for command, instructional and staff appointments,” he said.
He called on the serving officers and soldiers to follow the professionalism, discipline, sacrifice and loyalty of the retiring generals.
Yusuf said Nigeria is faced with increasingly complex security threats and stressed the need for the Army to remain proactive and operationally prepared.
“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.
“You must never rest on your oars because the Nigerian Army has built an enviable reputation through courage, resilience and professionalism,” he said.
He was confident 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 thanked past and present national leaders for the chance to serve and paid tribute to family members for their sacrifices, prayers, patience and support.
“To the Infantry Corps, this will always be home to me. “I’m an Infantryman and I’ll be an Infantryman for the rest of my life – loyal, committed, steadfast,” he said.