658 Military Personnel Retire From Nigerian Armed Forces

A total of 658 military personnel from the Nigerian Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), officially retired from active service today.

The retirees, consisting of 535 from the Nigerian Army, 86 from the Navy, 35 from the Air Force, and two from the DIA, either voluntarily retired or reached the mandatory retirement age of 35 years of service.

The personnel underwent transitional training at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) in Oshodi, Lagos, to prepare for life after service. The training program included skill acquisition workshops to help the retirees remain productive during their post-military lives.

At the ceremony, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, urged the retirees to continue upholding the values instilled in them by the military, stressing the importance of their roles as community leaders and ambassadors of the Armed Forces.

“As ex-servicemen and women, I trust that you will set exemplary standards in your communities, contributing to peace, security, and progress,” Abubakar stated.

Reflecting on the enduring legacy of the military, Air Marshal Abubakar referenced the saying, “Soja come, soja go, but barracks remain,” emphasizing that while personnel may leave, the Armed Forces will continue to protect Nigeria’s security.

“The discipline, courage, and commitment that defined your careers will continue to inspire those who follow in your footsteps,” he added.

He assured the retirees that their departure marked the start of a new chapter in their lives, encouraging them to embrace a bright future. “With the discipline, training, and skills you have received, as well as with God on your side, you will enjoy a prosperous future filled with long life, good health, and a sound mind,” Abubakar said.

The Air Force Chief also reiterated the military’s ongoing commitment to supporting both serving and retired personnel, pledging to strengthen NAFRC’s capacity development and welfare initiatives.

Earlier, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Rimi Mamman, Commandant of NAFRC, encouraged the retirees to contribute to Nigeria’s peace, unity, and growth in their retirement. He noted that the training program had been specifically designed to assist in their transition to civilian life and revealed that the centre has trained over 51,000 personnel since its establishment.

The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the Nigerian Armed Forces, highlighting the lasting contributions of its service members and their continued role in supporting the country’s security and development.