The Nigerian Army has formally retired 18 senior officers of the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport after 35 years of service, marking the occasion with a ceremonial pulling-out parade in Benin City.
The colourful event signalled the end of a three-day conference held in the Edo State capital, themed “Optimising Supply and Transport Capabilities Towards Providing Effective Service Delivery to NA Operations in All Missions.”
Speaking at the ceremony, the Corps Commander, Maj.-Gen. Danjuma Shagaya, said the retired officers comprised four Major Generals and 14 Brigadier Generals who had served the nation with distinction from 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,” Shagaya said.
He described the pulling-out parade as a longstanding military tradition that recognises years of dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to national service. Shagaya also commended the Chief of Army Staff for honouring the retirees by sending a representative to the ceremony.
Representing the retired officers, Maj.-Gen. Olaniyi Dare reflected on decades of service across operational, command, and staff roles within the Nigerian Army.
“The Corps of Supply and Transport plays a central and indispensable role in the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army,” Dare said.
“We were entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that soldiers deployed across various theatres of operation are adequately sustained.”
Dare noted that whether during training exercises, peacekeeping missions, or internal security operations at home and abroad, the corps consistently delivered reliable logistics support.
“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,” he added.
“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 described the ceremony as symbolic, offering a moment to reflect on decades of service and sacrifice, while also paying tribute to the families of the retirees.
“Military life often demands long separations, personal sacrifices, and constant movement. Their understanding, patience, and encouragement made it possible for us to fulfil our duties with dedication,” Dare said.
