By Abigail Philip David
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has disclosed that the military is in discussions with the Federal Government on re-engaging retired personnel to leverage their extensive experience and capabilities.
Speaking during a 2024 send-off cocktail party in Abuja on Friday night, organised to honour 18 retiring and retired generals, General Musa stressed that the expertise of military retirees should not be wasted but instead channelled into national development.
He proposed their consideration for board appointments and other strategic roles, emphasizing that their contributions could have a greater impact outside active service.
“Not a Retreat Into Oblivion”
Addressing the honourees, Musa said, “Your retirement is not a retreat into oblivion but an opportunity to serve a greater cause in national development. We are engaging with political leaders to ensure that the armed forces’ developed capacities and capabilities are utilised.
“For those retiring, there are ongoing efforts to consider them for board appointments and other strategic roles. We believe they will make a significant impact outside active service. Discussions are ongoing to integrate veterans into national security planning, defence production, and other critical areas, just as is done in other countries.”
The retiring and retired generals include:
– Major Generals: A. Mohamed and B.Y. Baffa
– Brigadier Generals: D.O. Donibo, J.Y. Nimmyel, K.F. Suleiman, D.J. Abdullahi, K. Abdulkarim, H.A. Gambo, P.K. Yayock, F.C. Onyeari, A.A. Nguru, A.K. Onasoga, A.O. Oladimeji, E.E. Eyong, S.N. Eze, I.I. Adamu, and O.J. George.
Army Chief Commends Honourees
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, also commended the retiring generals for their exemplary service, honour, and courage throughout their careers. He highlighted their roles in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, supporting international peacekeeping missions, and addressing domestic security challenges.
Oluyede stated, “Their unwavering dedication to defending the nation, protecting citizens, and upholding national values has inspired many to join the service.
“They served with distinction in various capacities, including instructional, staff, command, and diplomatic roles. From Liberia to Sierra Leone, Sudan, the Darfur region, the Bakassi Peninsula, and in combating violent extremist groups within Nigeria, their expertise has been critical in shaping the Nigerian Army’s readiness to fulfil its mandate.”
The event celebrated the contributions of the honourees while reaffirming their potential role in national development post-retirement.
