Military Retires 464 Soldiers From Active Service

The Nigerian military Friday retired 464 personnel from active service.The soldiers comprising 449 from the Nigerian Army (NA), two from the Nigerian Navy (NN) and 13 from the Nigerian Air Force

 were hosted to a passing out ceremony held at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) in Oshodi, Lagos.In his farewell remarks to the personnel, Defence Minister, Brig.-Gen.
Mohammed Dan-Ali (rtd) urged them to collaborate with their colleagues still in service to contain militancy across the country.Dan-Ali who was represented by the Director Army, Ministry of Defence, Mrs. Iro Ikenga also urged them to put to good use, the skills they have acquired in the six months they have undergone trainings at NAFRC.He said: “You all know that the issue of security of our country in recent times is at its critical stage, as the military is now contending with insurgents in the North-east.“As retiring members of the armed forces, a lot is still required of you wherever you find yourselves in the aspect of collaborations with serving members of the Armed Forces.“You might also be required to collaborate with other security agencies of our father land to completely eradicate this threat of insurgency. And other criminal activities in our society.”Continuing, the Minister said the government has made adequate plans to ensure ex-servicemen have hitch free resettlement, urging them to prudently manage their retirement benefits.“The government has continued to vigorously pursue a policy of due process, aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability and rule of law. This in no doubt will culminate in the transformation of all spheres of our national life.“You must uphold the highest standards of conduct, character, integrity, excellence, service and team work. As worthy ambassadors of the service, you will be held accountable for these standards even in retirement.“You must therefore spread these values and virtues wherever you find yourselves,” he said.In his address, NAFRC’s Commandant, Air Vice Marshal Mike Iloenyosi urged the retirees to be circumspect, as the society in which they are transiting to would expect much from them.“You will be required to prove your worth in the way you relate within the community where you reside.“For those of you that will go back to your country homes, you must be interested and be involved in any security arrangement within your community. This is in view of the internal security challenges plaguing our country,” he said.