On Saturday, the Nigerian Army officially retired 15 generals from its Artillery Corps in a ceremony held at the Nigerian Army School of Artillery, located in Kachia, Kaduna State. The event marked the end of active military service for 11 major generals and four brigadier generals.
The ceremony was presided over by retired Maj.-Gen. James Myam, who served as the Reviewing Officer. Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Myam expressed their collective sense of fulfillment and gratitude.
“Having come this far, we feel highly fulfilled and give all glory to Almighty God for His mercies, grace, and preservation over the years,” Myam said. He extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, praying for continued strength and wisdom for him to lead the Nigerian Army to greater heights.
Addressing the audience, Myam reflected on the retirees’ long military journey, which began when they first reported for training as officer cadets at the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna. He urged serving officers to remain loyal to the constitution, vigilant, and security-conscious as they continue their duties.
He also offered advice, emphasizing three key traits that guided his own career as an artillery officer: empathy, proactiveness, and effective communication. Myam stressed the importance of loyalty to the democratic governance of Nigeria, declaring, “The era of military involvement in politics is gone for good.”
Myam acknowledged the government’s efforts to support the military, while also highlighting the broader context of national resource allocation. “We must understand that the Armed Forces are only one sector among many that require government attention. Prioritization is inevitable, and we must support the government’s activities at all times,” he said.
He urged continued commitment to duty, noting the military’s successes in combating armed groups and criminal non-state actors across the country. The retirees also expressed gratitude to their spouses, families, instructors, and mentors, as well as to the Nigerian Army and the Artillery Corps.
The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officers, including former Chief of Army Staff, retired Maj.-Gen. Alwali Kazir, along with other senior retired and serving military officials.
(NAN)
