The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, has sought the support of retired military officers in the ongoing fight against insurgency in Nigeria.
Lieutenant Yahaya made the call during a dinner night organised in honour of the year 2021 retired officers colonel and below, by the 2 Division Nigerian Army, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, Oyo State, Southwest Nigeria.
Addressing the outgoing punching arm of the force at the 2 Division Regimental Dinner, held at the Tiger Officers’ Mess, Agodi, Ibadan, capital of Oyo State, he affirmed that the services of the retired personnel would be re-engaged in order for the Army to continue to enjoy the benefits of the wealth of experience and professionalism that the retirees have gathered over the years.
The Army Chief stated that “Without doubt, those experiences and expertise would be relevant to enhance fighting efficiency of our Army. In its numerous fighting operations, the Army is still open to your invaluable contributions towards attaining her constitutional mandate and would always welcome your support in that regard.
“I urge you all never to rest on your oars, even in retirement until this war is brought to an end in favour of the Armed Forces and by extension, our nation.”
Lieutenant Yahaya appreciated the invaluable contributions of the retired officers colonel and below to the territorial integrity and the sovereignty of Nigeria while in service.
He urged them to continue to fulfil the obligation and promised to leave no stone unturned in the delivery of their welfare packages as and when due.
He also stated that the health facilities in various barracks and cantonments of the Nigerian Army across the country are available to the retirees.
The Army Chief said; “Please note that my administration remains committed to enhancing the welfare of our retired or discharged personnel, within the powers of my office. I implore you all to fulfil your obligations even as retired officers towards defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria as espoused in your oath of allegiance.
“I also urge you all to shun all forms of misconduct or actions capable of bringing the Army to disrepute in retirement, as you are seen as worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Army.”
The Army Chief was represented by the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Gold Chibuisi.
The guest of honour at the event, the Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde congratulated the retired military officers and urged them not to rest on their oars until the fight against the enemies of the state is over.
Governor Makinde said; “To the retired officers, you have put a beautiful service here to serve your nation and I’m saying at this point in Nigeria, you can be called anytime. The COAS said something about Nigeria calling back the brilliant minds of the Nigerian Army to come back and serve the nation. All what I need to tell you is ‘congratulations and be ready’, you’re retired but not tired. Be ready to continue serving your nation. God bless you and have a wonderful retirement life.”
Governor Makinde was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Abdul-Mojeed Mogbonjubola.
At the end of the ceremony, souvenirs were presented to the retired military personnel, while a minute silence was observed in memory of fallen army officers.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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