The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubarkar, expressed profound appreciation for the retired and retiring officers of the Nigerian Army during a Regimental Dinner Night held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess Asokoro, Abuja on Tuesday, December 19, 2023.
In an official statement Director Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu said the event was organized to honor the distinguished service of one General, one Lieutenant General, 67 Major Generals, and 44 Brigadier Generals who have retired from the Nigerian Army.
In his address, Minister Badaru lauded the sacrifices and unwavering commitment of the retiring officers to the nation’s stability. He assured them of the government’s dedication to ensuring the prompt payment of their pensions, recognizing their meritorious and dedicated service to the nation.
The Defence Minister encouraged the retirees to take a moment to reflect on the next phase of their lives, underscoring the government’s commitment to the welfare of retired personnel. He extended his gratitude to the retirees for their exemplary service, patriotism, and commended their spouses for their unwavering support.
Minister Badaru urged members of the Armed Forces to remain loyal and sustain their commitment to supporting democracy in Nigeria and beyond. He highlighted the Armed Forces’ positive influence in West Africa and its global standing as a democratic force.
Reflecting on the occasion, the Minister emphasized the importance of the retiring officers’ experiences and skills gained during their service, as well as their respect for diversity. He stated that these principles would serve as a solid foundation for their post-service endeavors.
Acknowledging the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the well-being of both serving and retired personnel, Minister Badaru reaffirmed the government’s commitment to their welfare.
In his remarks, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, urged the retired officers to appreciate God and the Nigerian Army for a successful career in the “noble profession of arms.” He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and Minister Badaru Abubakar for their unwavering support to the Nigerian Army.
The CoAS reassured the nation of the Nigerian Army’s unalloyed loyalty to the President and the country in fulfilling its constitutional roles in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Major General Victor Ezugwu, delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the retired generals, expressed gratitude for the honor accorded to them. He pledged that they would continue to be exemplary ambassadors of the Nigerian Army even in retirement.
The event featured the presentation of record of service certificates and souvenirs to the retired and retiring senior officers, along with a loyal toast to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Dignitaries present included Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, representatives of Service Chiefs and Inspector General of Police, immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (rtd), immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya (rtd), Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj Gen Parker Undiandeye, Heads of Security Agencies, and the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja, among others.
