The Nigerian Army has pulled out 18 senior officers of the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport following their retirement after 35 years of service.
The colourful pulling-out parade took place in Benin City, marking the end of a three-day conference themed around improving supply and transport capabilities for military operations.
Speaking at the event, the Corps Commander, Danjuma Shagaya, said the retired officers include four Major Generals and 14 Brigadier Generals. He praised their dedication and described the ceremony as both a celebration and recognition of their contributions.
“It is a joyous moment for the Corps of Supply and Transport, as current and former Corps Commanders are present to honour and celebrate these distinguished officers,” he said.
Shagaya explained that the pulling-out parade is a long-standing military tradition that provides an opportunity to honour years of sacrifice and service. He also commended the Chief of Army Staff for acknowledging the retirees by sending a representative to the ceremony.
Speaking on behalf of the retired officers, Olaniyi Dare said their careers spanned decades of service across operational, command, and staff roles.
“We were entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that soldiers deployed across various theatres of operation are adequately sustained,” he said.
He emphasized the critical role of the Corps in providing logistics support during training, peacekeeping missions, and internal security operations both within and outside Nigeria.
“As we transition into retirement, we recognise that while we may be leaving active service, our commitment to the ideals and values of the Nigerian Army remains steadfast.
“We will continue to serve as ambassadors of the corps and remain available to contribute our experience and knowledge whenever we are called upon,” he added.
Dare described the ceremony as symbolic, noting it offered a moment to reflect on decades of dedication to national service. He also acknowledged the sacrifices of families, highlighting their support despite the challenges of military life.
