The Commander, Infantry Corps, Major General GM Mutkut, has honoured discharging soldiers of Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre for their selfless service and sacrifices to the nation after 35 years of meritorious military service.
The Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations HQ ICC, Lieutenant Colonel, Polycarp Okoye, on the Nigerian Army’s X handle on Wednesday, said Major General Mutkut stated this during a send-forth ceremony organised in honour of the retiring soldiers at HQ ICC, where he commended them for their dedication, commitment and contributions to the Nigerian Army and the country at large.
Congratulating the soldiers on the successful completion of their military careers, the CIC assured them that their sacrifices would remain appreciated and remembered.
“You have served Nigeria, and proven yourselves beyond doubt. You will always be remembered for your sacrifices to fatherland. I pray that God Almighty may bless you in your future endeavours, and compensate you for your efforts, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the military and the nation at large,” he said.
The Infantry Corps Commander wished the retiring personnel long life, prosperity and sound health as they transition into civilian life. He also urged them to remain steadfast and committed to national development while contributing positively to their respective communities.
Mutkut further acknowledged the sacrifices made by the soldiers’ families throughout their years of military service, particularly the challenges associated with prolonged separation from their loved ones.
“You must recall the sacrifices your families made to endure the trauma, pains, and loneliness as a result of your consistent and lengthy absence from the home fronts. Please consider this retirement period as a suitable opportunity for you all to reunite with them and strengthen loose bonds,” he admonished.
He also encouraged the retiring soldiers to prioritise their health and ensure the welfare of their families remained a major responsibility as they began a new chapter of life.
In goodwill messages, the Deputy Chief of Staff Logistics, Colonel MB Abdullahi, and the ICC Chief Clerk, Master Warrant Officer Abbas Muhammad, commended the discharging soldiers for their dedicated service and wished them success in their post-retirement endeavours.
In his vote of thanks, the outgoing Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM), HQ ICC, Army Warrant Officer Promise Gargea, expressed gratitude to God for granting them the opportunity to serve the nation and retire peacefully after decades of service.
He also appreciated the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, NAM, for providing them with the opportunity to serve in the Nigerian Army, noting that the experience and discipline acquired during their military careers would serve as valuable assets in their future endeavours.
Gargea further expressed appreciation to Major General Mutkut and all officers and soldiers of the Infantry Corps Centre for their support, particularly during the final stages of their military careers.
He pledged, on behalf of the discharging soldiers, that they would continue to uphold the values of the military and serve as worthy ambassadors of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
As a mark of appreciation for their selfless service and contributions to the nation, the CIC presented gift items to the retiring soldiers.
The ceremony was attended by Principal Staff Officers of HQ ICC, other officers and soldiers, as well as family members of the retiring personnel.