658 military personnel retires voluntarily from Nigerian Armed Forces

No fewer than 658 military personnel drawn from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) have voluntarily disengaged from the Armed Forces of Nigeria today December 12, 2024.

The military personnel comprising of 535 from the Nigerian Army, 86 from the Nigerian Navy, 35 from the Nigerian Air Force and two from the DIA have voluntarily applied to leave the military, while some have also reached the compulsory age of retirement of 60 years.
The personnel passed through the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) Oshodi to get them prepared for retirement life and also learn skills that will keep them busy during their retirement period.
Speaking during their disengagement ceremonies at the NAFRC in Lagos the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar urge retiring personnel to carry values learnt from the military forward, to enable them become pillars of strength and ambassadors of the military profession in their communities.
Air Marshal Abubakar said: “As ex-servicemen and women, I trust that you will set exemplary standards in your communities, contributing to peace, security, and progress.”
He drew them to reflect on the concept of “Soja come, soja go, but barracks remain.”, explaining that “While many of us may have joked about this saying during our careers, it holds a profound meaning worthy of reflection. It reminds us that the Nigerian military is more than the individuals who serve within its ranks; it is a resilient institution that safeguards our nation’s existence and endures the test of time.
“As individual service members transition to new chapters in life, the values, traditions, and impact of their service live on, continually shaping the Armed Forces and the nation as a whole.
“This adage “Soja Come Soja Go barrack remains” also highlights the significance of the foundation you have built and the legacy you leave behind. Although you may no longer wear the military uniform daily, the discipline, courage, and commitment that defined your careers will continue to inspire those who follow in your footsteps, ensuring that the strength of the military remains steadfast.”
The Air Force Chief also advised the retiring military men to see retirement from service not as death sentence, “rather, it marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities and challenges. Do not entertain fears about your future, do not be discouraged about leaving the profession, comrades, and environment in which you have lived for so long.
“With the discipline, training and skills you have received, as well as with God on your side, you will enjoy a bright and prosperous future, filled with long life, good health and a sound mind.”
The Chief of Air Staff said the the leadership of the Armed Forces remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of both serving and retired personnel, adding that the military will continue to support NAFRC and advance its objectives in line with its vision for capacity development and personnel welfare.
Earlier the Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Rimi Mamman called on the retiring personnel make positive contribution to the peace, unity and growth of Nigeria while in retirement.
His words: “You will agree with me that unlike other courses you have attended while in service, this one was specifically geared towards your personal self development to aid you in transiting to civil life.”
AVM Mamman revealed that so far the centre has trained over 51,000 personnel since it was created several years ago.