Lagos: The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Thursday hailed the sacrifices and efforts of 542 military personnel who retired from active service. Oluyede made the commendation at the passing out event of Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) Course 1/2025 in Lagos. He was represented by the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command, Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the COAS emphasized the occasion as a tribute to the courage, sacrifice, discipline, resilience, selflessness, and unwavering commitment of the retirees to the service of the country. He encouraged the retirees to enjoy their post-service life and to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired. Oluyede highlighted the need for them to manage their new vocations effectively to ensure success in their future endeavors.

Oluyede urged the retirees to maintain their honor before the civil populace, stressing that society would expect a high ethical standard and discipline from them. He expressed confidence in their ability to excel in future endeavors and positively influence their communities by contributing to security and development.

He also reminded the retirees of the challenges that might arise in post-service life, such as inadequate resources, misuse of retirement benefits, and negative influences. Oluyede advised against an extravagant lifestyle beyond their means and encouraged them to engage in familiar business ventures.

The COAS highlighted the importance of the training provided, which aimed to expose them to vocational opportunities and management skills for a meaningful life in retirement. He expressed gratitude to NAFRC for their quality training and urged them to continue developing human resources for retiring personnel and society.

Oluyede commended the leadership of the Armed Forces for prioritizing personnel welfare and sustaining support for the advancement of the resettlement center. He thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, for his leadership and expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for supporting the capacity development and welfare of the Armed Forces.