The Nigerian Army Finance Corps (NAFC) has held a valedictory parade in honour 10 retired senior officers of the corps who disengaged from the services of the force following recent leadership changes by government.
The parade which held at the Nigerian Army School of Signals Parade Ground, Apapa, Lagos, was attended by senior military officers, friends and family members of the officers.
Special Guest of Honour at the event, Major General Kamal Ishola Yusuf (Rtd), described the occasion as one of the most dignified and well-organised valedictory parades he had ever witnessed.
According to Major General Yusuf, the military remains one of the few institutions that consistently uphold tradition and ceremonial customs, adding that such traditions form the foundation of military discipline, identity and collective purpose.
General Yusuf said that the pulling-out parade was a clear demonstration that the Nigerian Army and its Finance Corps continue to thrive by preserving and honouring their rich heritage.
The retired officers honoured at the ceremony were Major General KI Yusuf, Major General AA Fayemiwo, Major General J Mohammed, Major General RN Ochei, Major General MO Ihanuwaze, Major General M Galadima, Major General SA Gumel, Brigadier General EA Obona, Brigadier General AS Maikano, and Brigadier General MK Baba-Mallam.
Speaking further, Major General Yusuf expressed gratitude to God for preserving the lives of the officers throughout their years of service. He also thanked the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his continued support to the Nigerian Army Finance Corps.
He acknowledged the efforts of the Chief of Accounts and Budget (Army), Major General TT Sidick, whose dedication and hard work contributed significantly to the success of the ceremony.
The event attracted a wide range of guests, including serving and retired senior officers of the Finance Corps, former Chiefs of Army Staff, corps commanders, commandants of Defence and Nigerian Army institutions, formation commanders, captains of industry, and heads of financial institutions.
Highlights of the ceremony included the ceremonial march-past, the traditional pulling-out parade, and group photographs with the retired officers.
Guests were later hosted to a reception at the Command Finance Office, where they were entertained with musical performances, a comedy show, cultural troupe displays, and a life band. The reception also featured a variety of meals and refreshments.
The valedictory parade marked the formal end of decades of dedicated service by the retiring officers and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to honouring those who have contributed to its growth and professionalism.
