Army retires 16 Generals from active service

The Nigerian Army Signals on Friday formally retired 16 senior officers, including brigadier generals and major generals, at a pull-out ceremony held in Apapa.

Speaking at the event, the Special Guest of Honour, Abiodun Owolabi (rtd.), addressed attendees on behalf of the retired officers, emphasizing the critical role the corps has played in the operational successes of the Nigerian Army.

Owolabi said the corps’ contributions had remained critical to the operational successes of the Nigerian Army.

He emphasised that the corps’ capacity to provide secure, timely and uninterrupted communications, alongside improving situational awareness, had continued to support mission success across various theatres of operation.

“It is a matter of great pride that we contributed, in our own modest ways, to this transformation and the strengthening of the Nigerian Army’s operational effectiveness.

“We are proud to observe that the current leadership of the corps continues to build on these contributions, both in operational capacity and in improving the welfare of officers and soldiers.

“As senior officers, we also bore the responsibility of mentoring and shaping the next generation of leaders,” he said.

Reflecting on leadership, he noted that it goes beyond command responsibilities to include institution-building, personnel development and the preservation of core values.

“Today, it is gratifying to see many of those we mentored occupying key leadership positions and upholding the traditions of excellence within the Nigerian Army and NAS in particular.

“We owe a debt of gratitude to our mentors, senior officers, instructors and colleagues who guided, challenged and inspired us to attain greater heights.

“Their wisdom and encouragement were instrumental to our professional and personal development,” he said.

He further stressed that the strength of the Nigerian Army lies in character, competence and commitment to duty, adding that leadership demands courage, integrity and responsibility.

Owolabi urged serving personnel, especially younger officers and soldiers, to remain disciplined and uphold professional standards.

“Lead your troops with fairness, train them diligently and always place the mission and the welfare of your men at the centre of your decisions.

“The world continues to evolve, and the challenges facing our Armed Forces remain complex. However, I am confident in your capability and commitment to address them,” he said.

He also reflected on the transformation of the Nigerian Army over the years, noting that the retirees had both witnessed and contributed to its evolution.

“Over time, the Army has evolved from conventional force structures to a more adaptive, joint and multi-agency force capable of addressing emerging security challenges.

“As a personal reflection, serving as the pioneer Commander of the 57 Signal Brigade provided invaluable experience in command, strategic leadership and national defence coordination.

“Being entrusted with higher responsibility as Corps Commander, Nigerian Army Signals, was both an honour and a testament to the confidence reposed in me,” he said.

Acknowledging the role of families, Owolabi said their support was central to the success of military careers.

He appreciated their wives, children and loved ones for the sacrifices they made throughout their years of service.

“We owe them an immeasurable debt of gratitude for enduring long separations, frequent relocations and the uncertainties associated with military life.

“Your prayers, resilience, patience and unwavering support made it possible for us to serve with dedication.

“Today’s honour also belongs to you,” he said.

He also paid tribute to fallen colleagues who lost their lives in active service.

“Their sacrifice remains the foundation upon which the Nigerian Army stands.

“We honour their memory and reaffirm our commitment to the ideals for which they paid the supreme price,” he said.

As the retired officers took their final salutes, Owolabi said they did so with a sense of fulfilment and gratitude.

“As we transition into retirement, we do not see this as a withdrawal from service, but a continuation in another form.

“We will remain ambassadors of the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Army Signals, ready to contribute our experience whenever called upon.

“On behalf of all the retiring generals, I appreciate the leadership of the Nigerian Army, NAS and all well-wishers for being part of this journey,” Owolabi said.