The Nigerian Army Finance Corps has pulled out 10 senior officers who retired from service, marking the end of their military careers with a colourful valedictory parade in Lagos State.
The parade, held on Friday at the Nigerian Army School of Signals Parade Ground, Apapa, Lagos, celebrated the officers’ years of dedicated service and contributions to the Nigerian Army and the Finance Corps.
Those retired include Major Generals KI Yusuf, AA Fayemiwo, J Mohammed, RN Ochei, MO Ihanuwaze, M Galadima and SA Gumel, as well as Brigadier Generals EA Obona, AS Maikano and MK Baba-Mallam.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, the ceremony was described as a dignified event attended by senior military officers, captains of industry and families of the retirees.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, Major General Kamal Ishola Yusuf (retd.) described the pulling-out parade as “one of the most colourful and dignified parades” he had witnessed.
In his valedictory speech, Yusuf said the military remained one of the few institutions that steadfastly uphold tradition, stressing that such customs form the backbone of its identity.
“The military remains one of the few institutions that steadfastly uphold tradition. These traditions shape our discipline, ethos and collective sense of purpose,” he said.
He added that the pulling-out parade was “a clear testament that the Nigerian Army and the Finance Corps continue to flourish by preserving and honouring their noble heritage.”
The retired general expressed gratitude to God for preserving the lives of the officers throughout their years of service and appreciated the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his support to the Nigerian Army Finance Corps.
Yusuf also commended the Chief of Accounts and Budget (Army), Major General TT Sidick, for his dedication, noting that his tireless efforts ensured the success of the event.
According to the statement, the ceremony attracted serving and retired officers, former Chiefs of Army Staff, corps commanders, commandants of defence institutions, formation commanders, heads of financial institutions, and families of the retirees.
Highlights of the event included the pulling-out parade, ceremonial march-past and group photographs. Dignitaries were later hosted to a reception at the Command Finance Office, featuring musical performances, comedy, a live band and cultural displays, alongside refreshments.
The Nigerian Army said the parade was part of efforts to honour service, preserve military traditions and recognise the sacrifices of officers who had served the nation with distinction.
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