Picnews
The Nigerian Army recently held a grand valedictory service in Lagos to bid farewell to 10 retired generals, marking the end of their distinguished service. The ceremony, held at the Nigerian Army School of Signals Parade Ground in Apapa, was attended by serving and retired senior officers, former Chiefs of Army Staff, and other dignitaries.
The retirees include Major Generals KI Yusuf, AA Fayemiwo, J Mohammed, RN Ochei, MO Ihanuwaze, M Galadima, SA Gumel, and Brigadier Generals EA Obona, AS Maikano, and MK Baba-Mallam. In his valedictory speech, Major General KI Yusuf expressed gratitude to God for preserving their lives throughout their years of service and thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his unwavering support.
The ceremony was described as “one of the most colourful and dignified parades” by the Special Guest of Honour, Major General Kamal Ishola Yusuf (retd.). The event featured a pulling-out parade, a ceremonial march-past, and group photographs, followed by a reception with musical interludes, comedy show, live band, and cultural troupe display.
The valedictory parade is a testament to the Nigerian Army’s tradition of honoring its retired officers, celebrating their service, and reinforcing the enduring values of the military institution. The ceremony also serves as a formal recognition of the retirees’ dedication and provides a dignified transition for them into retirement.
The event was attended by a wide array of guests, including former Chiefs of Army Staff, Corps Commanders, commandants of defence institutions, formation commanders, captains of industry, heads of financial institutions, and families of the retirees. The Nigerian Army Finance Corps (NAFC) organized the event to celebrate the outstanding contributions of the retired officers to the growth and development of the Corps.
Major General Yusuf noted that the military remains one of the few institutions that steadfastly uphold tradition, stressing that such customs form the backbone of its identity and shape its discipline, ethos, and collective sense of purpose. He affirmed that the pulling-out parade was a clear testament that the Nigerian Army and the Finance Corps continue to flourish by preserving and honouring their noble heritage.
The ceremony highlights the Nigerian Army’s commitment to preserving its traditions and honoring its retired officers. The event also provides an opportunity for serving and retired officers to come together and celebrate the contributions of their colleagues.
The Nigerian Army’s valedictory parade is a significant event that showcases the institution’s respect for its retired officers and its commitment to preserving its traditions. The ceremony is a fitting tribute to the retired generals’ years of service and dedication to the Nigerian Army.
