The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, disclosed that the military is in discussions with the Federal Government to explore ways of re-engaging retired military personnel.
Speaking during a 2024 send-off cocktail party on Friday night, organized to honor 18 retiring and retired generals, Musa highlighted the untapped potential of military retirees.
He emphasized that their extensive experience and expertise should be leveraged for national development, suggesting roles such as board appointments and strategic positions.
“Your retirement is not a retreat into oblivion but an opportunity to serve a greater cause in national development,” Musa said.
“We are engaging with political leaders to ensure that the armed force’s developed capacities and capabilities are not wasted.
Efforts are ongoing to consider retirees for board appointments and other impactful roles.
We believe their contributions outside active service can make a greater impact,” Musa added.
He further noted that retired officers could play pivotal roles in areas such as national strategic planning, defense production, and security management, akin to practices in other nations.
The honorees included Maj. Gen. A. Mohamed, Maj. Gen. B.Y. Baffa, and Brig. Gens. D.O. Donibo, J.Y. Nimmyel, K.F. Suleiman, and D.J. Abdullahi, among others.
Musa encouraged the retirees to remain ready to serve when called upon, stating, “It’s a work in progress.
Veterans worldwide are engaged in critical areas, and we aim to replicate this approach.”
Also speaking at the event, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, lauded the retiring generals for their exemplary service and unwavering commitment to the nation.
“These officers have been pillars of international peacekeeping and internal security efforts,” Oluyede said.
“Their service spanned diverse roles, including instructional, staff, command, and diplomatic capacities.
From Liberia to Sudan, the Bakassi Peninsula, and within Nigeria, their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian Army’s readiness and capabilities,” he continued.
He praised their efforts in addressing internal security threats posed by violent extremist groups, noting their legacy of courage and dedication.
The event served as a platform to honor the retiring officers while reaffirming the military’s intent to integrate their expertise into broader national strategies.
