Politics
Nigerians React As Military And FG Set To Re-Engage Retired Officers In Bold National Development Initiative
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has revealed that the military and the Federal Government are currently in discussions about re-engaging retired military personnel.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Emphasizing the valuable expertise these retirees possess, he stressed the need to harness their skills for national development, rather than allowing them to fade into the background.
Speaking at a send-off cocktail party on Friday to honor 18 retiring and retired generals, Musa advocated for their inclusion in strategic roles, including board appointments and other national initiatives.
He said, “Retirement is not a retreat into obscurity but an opportunity to contribute to a larger cause of national development. I want to announce that we are in talks with political leaders to ensure that the valuable capacities of the armed forces are not wasted. For those retiring, efforts are underway to consider them for board roles and other positions where their contributions can continue to make a significant impact.”
Musa added, “This is an ongoing process. You will be needed in national strategic planning, defense production, national security, and other key areas, just like military veterans are engaged in various nations globally.”
The event honored 18 generals, including Maj. Gen. A. Mohamed, Maj. Gen. B.Y. Baffa, and Brig. Gens. D.O. Donibo, J.Y. Nimmyel, and K.F. Suleiman, among others.
Musa encouraged the retiring officers to stay prepared for future service, assuring them that their expertise remains highly valuable.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, also commended the retiring officers for their exemplary careers, marked by courage, dedication, and commitment. He acknowledged their significant contributions to international peacekeeping and their vital roles in tackling internal security challenges, such as combating extremist groups.
Oluyede said, “Their steadfast commitment to defending our nation’s territorial integrity, protecting citizens, and upholding our values has inspired many to join the service. Throughout their distinguished careers, they have served in command, staff, instructional, and diplomatic capacities, both in Nigeria and internationally. Their work in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Sudan, the Bakassi Peninsula, and in combating internal security threats has shaped the Nigerian Army and its readiness to meet its mandates.”
Musa emphasized that the re-engagement discussions align with global practices, where military veterans are called upon for their expertise in strategic national roles.
