The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has disclosed ongoing talks between the military and the Federal Government about re-engaging retired military personnel.
Highlighting the wealth of expertise retirees possess, he stressed the importance of utilising their skills for national development rather than allowing them to fade into obscurity.
Speaking on Friday at a 2024 send-off cocktail party held to honour 18 retired and retiring generals, Musa advocated for their inclusion in strategic roles, such as board appointments and other national initiatives.
He said, “Your retirement is not a retreat into oblivion but an opportunity to serve a greater cause in national development. I want to use this medium to announce that we are engaging with political leaders to ensure that the armed forces developed capacities and capabilities are not wasted. For those retiring, there are ongoing efforts to consider them for board appointments and other roles where they can contribute more, as we believe they will make a greater impact outside active service.
“It’s a work in progress. You will be needed in national strategic planning, defence production, national security, and other critical areas, just as veterans are engaged in other countries worldwide.”
The event celebrated 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 them to remain ready to serve when called upon, assuring them that their skills remain invaluable.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, also praised the retiring officers for their outstanding careers marked by courage, commitment, and dedication.
He acknowledged their contributions to international peacekeeping efforts and their critical roles in addressing internal security challenges, such as combating violent extremist groups.
Oluyede said, “Their unwavering dedication to defending the territorial integrity of our nation, protecting its citizens, and upholding the values we hold dear as a people has inspired many to join the service. Throughout their illustrious careers, they served the army and the nation in instructional, staff, command, and even diplomatic capacities. This group of courageous colleagues has served the nation’s interests both within and outside Nigeria.
“From Liberia to Sierra Leone, Sudan, the Darfur region, the Bakassi Peninsula, and in addressing various internal security challenges posed by violent extremist groups across the country, their expertise and experiences have been instrumental in shaping the Nigerian Army and ensuring its readiness to fulfil its mandate.”
The re-engagement discussions, Musa noted, align with global practices where military veterans are leveraged for their expertise in strategic national roles.