March 27, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Army, on Thursday, formally honoured 18 of its most senior officers as they retired after 35 years of meritorious service, taking their final bow in a colourful pulling-out parade held in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
The event, organised by the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport (NACST), marked the climax of a three-day conference themed “Optimising Supply and Transport Capabilities Towards Providing Effective Service Delivery to NA Operations in All Missions.” It drew top military officers, past and present, highlighting the critical role of logistics in national defence.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Corps Commander, Danjuma Shagaya, disclosed that the retirees comprised four Major Generals and 14 Brigadier Generals who had served the nation with dedication from their commissioning to retirement.
He described the occasion as both celebratory and symbolic, noting that it provided an opportunity to recognise the officers’ immense contributions to the Nigerian Army’s operational success over the decades.
“It is a joyous moment for the Corps of Supply and Transport, as current and former Corps Commanders are present to honour and celebrate these distinguished officers”, Shagaya said.
He explained that the pulling-out parade remains a longstanding military tradition designed to celebrate years of sacrifice, professionalism, and commitment to duty.
Shagaya also commended the Chief of Army Staff for recognising the contributions of the retiring officers by sending a representative to grace the occasion, describing the gesture as a reaffirmation of the Army’s respect for service and excellence.
Responding on behalf of the retirees, Olaniyi Dare said their careers spanned several decades, during which they served in various operational, command, and staff roles across the country and beyond. He emphasised that the Corps of Supply and Transport remains central to the effectiveness of military operations, ensuring that troops deployed across different theatres are adequately sustained.
“We were entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that soldiers deployed across various theatres of operation are adequately sustained”, Dare said.
He added that whether during training, peace support missions, or internal security operations within and outside Nigeria, the corps consistently delivered reliable logistics support.
“As we transition into retirement, we recognise that while we may be leaving active service, our commitment to the ideals and values of the Nigerian Army remains steadfast”, he said.
Dare assured that the retirees would continue to serve as ambassadors of the corps, offering their experience and expertise whenever called upon. He further described the ceremony as symbolic, providing a moment to reflect on decades of service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to national defence.
The retired officers also paid tribute to their families, acknowledging their support and resilience throughout their years in service.
“Military life often demands long separations, personal sacrifices, and constant movement. Their understanding, patience, and encouragement made it possible for us to fulfil our duties with dedication”, he added.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
