Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar lauded the retired and retiring officers of the Nigerian Army, acknowledging their sacrifices and steadfast dedication to the nation’s stability.
During a Regimental Dinner Night held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess Asokoro, Abuja, in honor of newly retired and retiring Nigerian Army senior officers, the Defence Minister expressed assurance regarding the prompt payment of their pensions.
Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director, Army Public Relations, conveyed the Minister’s encouragement for the retirees to take time for reflection on their next life phase, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring timely pension payments.
Badaru Abubakar commended the retirees for their exemplary service and devotion to the country, extending gratitude to their spouses for their resilience. He urged members of the Armed Forces to uphold loyalty and sustain their support for democracy, noting the Armed Forces’ role as a beacon of democracy in West Africa and an influential force globally.
Recognizing the occasion as an opportunity for introspection, the Minister highlighted the retired officers’ wealth of experience, their commitment to diversity, and their dedication, providing a strong foundation as they transition out of service. He assured continued efforts by the Federal Government to enhance the welfare of serving and retired personnel.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), urged the officers to appreciate both God and the Nigerian Army for their successful careers in the noble profession of arms, reaching a point of honorable disengagement from active service.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Retired Generals, Major General Victor Ezugwu thanked the COAS for the honor bestowed upon them, pledging their commitment to remaining admirable representatives of the Nigerian Army even in retirement.
