Defence Minister Badaru Commends Army Retirees for Sacrifice, Promises Swift Pension Payments
Defence Minister Badaru Commends Army Retirees for Sacrifice, Promises Swift Pension Payments
Defence Minister Badaru Commends Army Retirees for Sacrifice, Promises Swift Pension Payments
Aysha S. Rabo
The Honourable Minister of Defense, Mohammed Badaru Abubarkar, expressed heartfelt commendation for retired and retiring officers of the Nigerian Army during a Regimental Dinner Night held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess in Asokoro, Abuja. He praised their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the nation’s stability and assured them of the government’s commitment to promptly pay their pensions.
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The event, which saw the retirement of one General, one Lieutenant General, 67 Major Generals, and 44 Brigadier Generals, showcased the dedication and blemish-free service of these officers to the nation.
In his remarks, Minister Badaru urged the retirees to take a well-deserved break and reflect on the next phase of their life. He assured them that the government is dedicated to ensuring the prompt payment of their pensions, acknowledging their exemplary service, and expressing gratitude on behalf of the nation. The Minister specifically commended their spouses for their perseverance and support throughout their military careers.
While charging members of the Armed Forces to remain loyal and uphold the culture of supporting democracy, Minister Badaru highlighted the positive influence the Nigerian Armed Forces has had in West Africa and globally. He emphasized that the occasion provided an opportunity for the Nigerian Army to reflect on its service and dedication, particularly as demonstrated by the retired and retiring senior officers.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, also addressed the event, urging the retired senior officers to appreciate God and the Nigerian Army for their successful journey in the ‘noble profession of arms’ and reaching the point of meritorious disengagement from active service.
COAS Lagbaja expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and Minister Badaru Abubakar for their unwavering support to the Nigerian Army. He reaffirmed the unalloyed loyalty of the Nigerian Army to the President and the nation in fulfilling its constitutional roles in defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria.
In his vote of thanks on behalf of the Retired Generals, Major General Victor Ezugwu pledged that they would remain good ambassadors of the Nigerian Army even in retirement. The event included the presentation of record of service certificates and souvenirs to the retired and retiring senior officers, culminating in a loyal toast to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Dignitaries who graced the occasion included the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, representatives of Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police, immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (rtd), immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya (rtd), Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj Gen Parker Undiandeye, Heads of Security Agencies, and the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Mariya Lagbaja, among several others.
Defence Minister Badaru Commends Army Retirees for Sacrifice, Promises Swift Pension Payments
