The Nigerian Army has formally pulled out 18 senior officers of the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport following their retirement after 35 years of service.
The ceremony, held in Benin City, Edo State, marked the climax of a three-day conference focused on strengthening logistics support for military operations. The event featured a traditional pulling-out parade, a long-standing military custom used to honour retiring personnel.
According to reports by the News Agency of Nigeria, the retired officers included four Major Generals and 14 Brigadier Generals who served in various operational, command, and administrative roles throughout their careers.
Speaking at the event, Corps Commander, Danjuma Shagaya, described the occasion as both a celebration and recognition of decades of dedicated service. He noted that the officers had served the nation diligently from their commissioning to retirement.
“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 added that the ceremony reflects the military’s tradition of acknowledging sacrifice and commitment, while also commending the Chief of Army Staff for sending a representative to honour the retirees.
Speaking on behalf of the retired officers, Olaniyi Dare said their careers spanned decades of service across different theatres of operation, both within and outside Nigeria. He emphasised the critical role of the Corps of Supply and Transport in ensuring operational effectiveness by providing essential logistics support.
“We were entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that soldiers deployed across various theatres of operation are adequately sustained,” he said, adding that the corps remained committed during training, peacekeeping missions, and internal security operations.
Dare noted that although the officers are leaving active service, they remain committed to the values of the Nigerian Army and are willing to contribute their experience when called upon. He also paid tribute to their families, acknowledging the sacrifices and challenges associated with military life.
The ceremony served as a moment of reflection on decades of service, dedication, and contributions to national defence.
