Army retirees praised by Defence Minister for their sacrifice

Nigerian Army officers who are retiring or have retired have been praised by Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar for their selflessness and sacrifice for the stability of their country.

At a Regimental Dinner Night held in honour of recently retired and retiring senior Nigerian Army officers at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess Asokoro, Abuja, to celebrate the retirement of certain officers, the Minister of Defence gave assurances to the retirees over the timely payment of their pension.

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Assuring them of the government’s commitment to timely payment of retired personnel’s pensions, the Minister asked pensioners to take a breather and contemplate appropriately on the next chapter of life, according to a statement from Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director, Army Public Relations.

The Minister greeted the retirees, thanked them for their outstanding service, highlighted their love for their country, and congratulated their spouses on their tenacity.

He urged members of the Armed Forces to uphold the culture of support for democracy in Nigeria and abroad and stated that the Armed Forces’ attitude towards democracy has made it a model force in West Africa and a force to be reckoned with in the community of nations.

He stated that the event gives the Nigerian Army a chance to consider its service and the deep devotion shown by the retiring and retired senior officers. He also added that the experiences and skills acquired during the service, along with their respect for diversity, which has been their guiding principles throughout their career, will provide

providing them with a real stage as they leave the service.

He stated that every effort will be made by the federal government to enhance the welfare of active duty and retired personnel.

Speaking at the event, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), advised the officers to give thanks to God and the Nigerian Army for a job well done during their time in the “noble profession of arms” and for reaching the stage of meritorious retirement from active duty.

Major General Victor Ezugwu gave the vote of appreciation on behalf of the retired generals, thanking the COAS for the honour bestowed upon them and promising to continue serving as excellent representatives of the Nigerian Army after retirement.