The Nigerian Military on Wednesday, retired five hundred and forty-two senior Non-Commissioned Officers from service after they had completed 35 years of service.

The retirement ceremony, held at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre in Oshodi, Lagos, included 362 soldiers from the Nigerian Army, 134 from the Navy, and 46 from the Air Force.

Speaking at their retirement ceremony held at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) in Oshodi, Lagos, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, who was represented by the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command, TRADOC, Major General Aligbe Obhiozele, commended the retired personnel for their service to the nation.

He urged them to uphold the values learnt in service as they transition to civilian lives.

“Today we celebrate your courage, discipline and selfless service to our great nation.

“Your 35-year journey embodies the finest military traditions of resilience and patriotism. As you transition to civilian life, we urge you to uphold these values and become pillars in your communities,” he said.

The COAS urged the retirees to continue living a disciplined life outside of service.

It is understood that the retirees were trained on different skills at the NAFRC in preparation for civilian life. They were also presented with their discharge certificates at the event.

One of them, Sergeant Musa Bello, said, “The training has prepared me well for civil life. I was trained on farming.I hope to invest my gratuity in it. I am proud of my service years.”