Retired soldiers who served at the Army Headquarters Garrison (AHQ Gar) have pledged their availability for any urgent national service.

Speaking during a send-forth dinner reception in their honour, Warrant Officer, Grace Panthon, on behalf of his colleagues, said: “We thank the Chief of Army STAFF (COAS) and the Garrison Commander for this occasion. We are very grateful. We remain ready to offer any service to the nation at all times and when called upon.”

The event was organised by the Garrison Commander, Maj.-Gen. Kabir Garba for ex-soldiers in the rank of Army Warrant Officers and below, who served within the Headquarters Garrison area. They were disengaged from service in 2021.

Garba, represented by his Chief of Staff, Brig.-General Jefferson Feboke, said the dinner was organised to honour the soldiers, who had served the Army meritoriously.

Garba said the event was in keeping with the COAS’ effort to uphold regimentation in the Nigerian Army in line with his command’s philosophy anchored on professionalism, readiness, administration and cooperation.

The Deputy Director, Manpower Planning, Army Headquarters, Brig.-Gen. Akinniyi Oyelade, congratulated the disengaging officers for their sacrifices to the Nigerian Army and the nation.

Oyelade said that disengagement or retirement was a phase of life which most of service personnel prayed for, to enjoy in gratifying and peaceful manner after giving their best to the system.

He said there was also much to enjoy in retirement, especially if the personnel had prepared well for it.

Oyelade said efforts were being made to ensure entitlements for all retired personnel were paid on time.