Jaji, Nigeria — On Friday, the Nigerian Army’s Infantry Corps Centre in Jaji hosted a formal ceremony to retire 28 senior officers, comprising 17 major generals and 11 brigadier generals, after they completed the mandatory period of service.
The ceremony, organized by the Army’s leadership, featured a parade, the presentation of souvenirs and the symbolic “pull‑out” of the officers from active duty. Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Major General Usman Yusuf thanked God for his health and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness the event.
Yusuf described the occasion as “memorable and emotional,” noting that it marked the conclusion of decades of service characterized by sacrifice and dedication to the nation. He reminded the audience that retirement is an inevitable stage in a military career, stating, “The journey begins the day an individual is commissioned into the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”
The retiring officers were commended for their contributions to the operational successes, growth and development of the Nigerian Army. Yusuf highlighted the role of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, in approving and organizing the ceremony, describing it as evidence that the Army under Shaibu’s command values the contributions of its senior leaders. He also praised the Infantry Corps commander, Major General Godwin Mutkut, for ensuring the event’s smooth execution.
Reflecting on their careers, Yusuf recalled the officers’ early training at the Nigerian Defence Academy and underscored how daily challenges shaped them into capable commanders, instructors and staff officers. He urged serving personnel to uphold the professionalism, discipline, sacrifice and loyalty exemplified by the retiring generals.
Addressing current security challenges, Yusuf warned that Nigeria faces increasingly complex threats and called for the Army to remain proactive and operationally ready. “The battlespace is expanding and the Army’s operational commitments continue to grow, with the eyes of the nation and the international community on the military,” he said. He emphasized that the force must not become complacent, noting its reputation for courage, resilience and professionalism.
Yusuf expressed confidence in the younger generation of officers, asserting they have the capacity to build on the legacies of leadership, mentorship and professionalism left by the outgoing senior officers. He also praised the Chief of Army Staff as a seasoned professional and visionary leader capable of steering the Army through emerging security challenges.
In closing, Yusuf thanked past and present national leaders for the opportunity to serve, and acknowledged the sacrifices of families for their prayers, patience and support. “To the Infantry Corps, this will forever remain home to me. I am an Infantryman and shall remain one for the rest of my life—loyal, committed and steadfast,” he pledged.
The ceremony, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to formally recognize the service of its senior officers while preparing for evolving security demands.
