Retired Senior Officers Relevant To National Development- General Musa

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has articulated the necessity for retired senior officers of the Armed Forces to contribute to national strategic planning, support for defence production, national security, and various other domains of national development.

General Musa stated this at the Send-off and Dinner party in honour of 18 retired and retiring Generals of the Nigerian Army held at the Command Officer’s Mess in Abuja Nigeria. 

The 18 retired and retiring Generals who were hosted to a cocktail reception included 2 Major Generals and 16 Brigadier Generals in appreciation and recognition of their meritorious and distinguished years of service to the Nigerian army and the nation at large. 

The Chief of Defence Staff revealed that the military is in discussion with the political heads to engage the armed forces personnel who have developed capacities and capabilities that should not be allowed to waste.

“Those retiring, we are looking for means to bring them back, maybe into most of the boards, to see that they can contribute more because we believe they will make more impact outside service. So it’s a work in progress.”

“This occasion allows us to reflect upon the extraordinary service and profound dedication demonstrated by these remarkable individuals throughout their illustrious careers. Their contributions, whether in the field or on the staff or in strategic leadership, have inspired a generation of officers and soldiers to uphold the highest standard of duty and selflessness.”

He praised the retiring generals for leading with courage, wisdom, and determination, devoting themselves to the protection and defence of the nation.

“Throughout their careers, these esteemed individuals have faced countless challenges, demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability in navigating the ever-evolving complexities of modern-day challenging times, but have also demonstrated exceptional strategic acumen, bravery, and resourcefulness in addressing numerous challenges.”

” Their unwavering commitment to professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct has set the standard for the Nigerian Army and, indeed, the armed forces of Nigeria. I am always happy that the Army and the armed forces have continuously been able to develop leadership qualities for succeeding generations, and this is what we pray for our great country, Nigeria” stated General Musa. 

The Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede in his address said the Generals are being celebrated for their remarkable careers and extraordinary contributions to peace, stability and interest of the dear nation Nigeria.

He applauded them for their unwavering dedication to defending the territorial integrity of the nation, protecting the citizens and upholding the values of honour during service. 

“Throughout their illustrious careers, these exceptional group of generals epitomised honour, courage and commitment in every aspect of their duties. This group of courageous colleagues served the nation’s interests within and outside the shores of Nigeria, from Liberia to Sierra Leone, Sudan to the Bakasi Peninsula and to resolving the various internal security challenges posed by violent extremist groups across the country.”

Lieutenant General Oluyede said their expertise and experiences have been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian army, ensuring its readiness and fulfilling its constitutional mandates as these impacts go beyond the battlefield.

“It is only natural that we give honour to whom it is due. Many of the desires to attain what you have attained in this profession were unfortunately dropped along the path. On behalf of the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, therefore, I would also want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to you for your years of service and association with us.

“I salute your spouses, also for their sacrifice and love. They kept the home front going while you were away, answering the call of duties.”

Earlier, the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General Jimmy Akpor said it is in keeping with implementing a befitting reward system as a part of his command philosophy, that the current Nigerian Army leadership supported the initiative of honouring retired senior officers in such a manner. 

The retired and retiring Generals include 2 Major Generals, Maj Gen A Mohammed and Maj Gen BY Baffa. Brigadier General ls include Brig Gen DO Donibo, Brig Gen KA Sulaiman, Brig Gen DJ Abdullahi, Brig Gen K Abdulkarim, Brig HA Gambo, Brig Gen PK Yayock, Brig Gen FC Onyeri, Brig Gen AA Nguru, Brig Gen AK Onasoga, Brig Gen OO Oladimeji, Brig Gen EE Eyong, Brig Gen SN Eze, Brig Gen II Adamu and Brig Gen OJ George.