The 22 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers of Headquarters 3 Brigade Photo: Nigerian Army
The Commander, 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, on Thursday honoured 22 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers of Headquarters 3 Brigade and its affiliated units for their 35 years of dedicated and meritorious service to the Nigerian Army and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Major Babatunde Zubairu, on the Nigerian Army’s X handle on Friday, said the retiring personnel were celebrated at a send-off ceremony held at the Brigade Auditorium.
In recognition of their invaluable contributions, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to national service, the retirees received cash gifts and other items as tokens of appreciation.
Addressing the gathering, Jimoh expressed delight at the successful completion of the retirees’ military careers. “I commend you for your loyalty, discipline and steadfast commitment to duty throughout your years of service,” he said.
He described the occasion as a fitting tribute to their courage, patriotism and selfless dedication, noting that their contributions had played a significant role in enhancing the operational effectiveness and overall mission accomplishment of the Nigerian Army.
The Commander emphasised that military service demands considerable sacrifice.
“Military service often requires personnel to remain separated from their loved ones, endure challenging conditions and place the interests of the nation above personal comfort. Your 35 years of service reflect a profound sense of duty and commitment to the defence of the country,” he stated.
Jimoh urged the retirees to remain worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Army.
“Uphold the values of discipline and integrity, and use your wealth of experience to mentor younger generations. Remain actively involved in your communities and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he advised.
He further encouraged them to embrace retirement with optimism.
“Retirement is the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities for personal growth and meaningful contributions to society. Plan carefully, manage your resources prudently, acquire additional skills where necessary, and prioritise your health and general well-being,” the Commander said.
In his remarks, the outgoing Brigade Regimental Sergeant Major, Master Warrant Officer Suleiman Mohammed, who spoke on behalf of the 22 retiring personnel, expressed profound appreciation to Brigadier General Jimoh.
“We thank the Commander for the honour bestowed upon us after 35 years of meritorious service.
His generosity, encouragement and commitment to personnel welfare demonstrate leadership that recognises and appreciates the sacrifices of soldiers who have devoted the greater part of their lives to serving the nation,” Mohammed said.
The ceremony was followed by a luncheon organised in honour of the retiring soldiers, during which Brigadier General Saka Jimoh joined other senior officers, officers and soldiers to celebrate the retirees and appreciate their 35 years of dedicated service to the Nigerian Army.