By Enyichukwu Enemanna
No fewer than 113 generals have been retired from the Nigerian Army, amidst applause for their selfless service in the African country standing tall in consolidating its democratic journey since 1999.
The number of those who retired from service include, one General, one Lieutenant General, 67 Major Generals, and 44 Brigadier Generals, a statement on Wednesday by the Director, Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, stated.
At the Regimental Dinner Night organised in honour of the retiring Nigerian Army senior officers in Abuja, the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, hailed the support of the Nigerian Army towards the growth of democracy in the country.
Badaru said this has made the Army a shining example in the West African region and beyond, urging other services in the region to take a cue from the Army.
Nwachukwu quoted the minister as urging the Army to continue to remain loyal to the constitution and support the development of democracy in the country.
“The minister charged members of the Armed Forces to remain loyal and sustain the culture of supporting democracy in Nigeria and across the shores.
“He added that the disposition of the Armed Forces towards democracy had made it a shining example in West Africa and an influencer in the comity of nations.
“The minister noted that the occasion provided the Nigerian Army the opportunity to reflect on its service and profound dedication as demonstrated by the retired and retiring senior officers.
“He noted that the Federal Government will continue to do all within its reach to improve the well-being of serving and retired personnel,” the statement read in part.
Badaru also hailed retired and retiring officers of the Nigerian Army for their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the nation’s stability.
He assured prompt payment of their pension.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, thanked President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly and the defence minister for their untiring support to the Nigerian Army.
