Military retires 449 soldiers, 13 air force personnel

The Nigerian military on Friday retired 464 personnel, comprising 449 soldiers, 13 air force officers, and two naval personnel.

According to The Nation, a passing out ceremony was organised for the retirees at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) in Oshodi, Lagos.

Mohammed Dan-Ali, minister of defence, urged them to collaborate with those still in service to contain the insecurity in the country.

Represented by Iro Ikenga, a director army in the ministry of defence, Dan-Ali advised them to put to good use, the skills they have acquired in the six months they have undergone trainings at NAFRC.

“You all know that the issue of security of our country in recent times is at its critical stage, as the military is now contending with insurgents in the north-east,” he said.

“As retiring members of the armed forces, a lot is still required of you wherever you find yourselves in the aspect of collaborations with serving members of the armed forces.

“You might also be required to collaborate with other security agencies of our father land to completely eradicate this threat of insurgency. And other criminal activities in our society.”

The minister said the government has made adequate plans to ensure the ex-servicemen have hitch free resettlement, urging them to prudently manage their retirement benefits.

“The government has continued to vigorously pursue a policy of due process, aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability and rule of law. This in no doubt will culminate in the transformation of all spheres of our national life,” he said.

“You must uphold the highest standards of conduct, character, integrity, excellence, service and team work. As worthy ambassadors of the service, you will be held accountable for these standards even in retirement.

“You must therefore spread these values and virtues wherever you find yourselves.”