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By Akeem Atoyebi
The Nigerian Army Ordinance Corps on Friday pulled out five retired major generals in Lagos, as the departing officers reflected on their experience.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the pulling out was held at the headquarters NAOC, Abalti Barracks, Surulere, Lagos.
The Reviewing Officer, Maj.-Gen Omotomilola Akintade, who made a remark on behalf of the other four said that their careers journey was not bed of roses all through, noting that there were periods of pain, strength, weaknesses, war and peace.
Akintade, however, said that “these experiences, which characterised our noble profession were not anticipated during training at the Nigerian Defence Academy.”
He also stated that it was his honour to speak on behalf of the other four retired generals being pulled out on the unique and memorable occasion.
Akintade said the ceremony signposted formal disengagement from active service in the Nigerian Army and indeed the Armed Forces.
He said that they were most delighted to be honoured with a valedictory parade, as they bade farewell to the profession of arms.
“I reflect with great sense of nostalgia, about 34 years ago, when we reported to this very place as young, vibrant and enthusiastic officers after graduation from the Nigerian Defence Academy.
“It was with pride and honour to have been posted to the NAOC. I am confident to say that each of us being pulled out today has benefited immensely from this corps, which has helped to nurture us from novices to true professionals and outstanding leaders.
“We shall continue to uphold the Ordnance Corps virtue of “One Big Family,” he said.
He said it took endurance, encouragement, determination, the grace of God and prayers to reach the pinnacle of their profession.
“Today, is notably a remarkable day that will long remain etched in our hearts. It is a day of grave emotional sentiments, nostalgic memories, genuine thankfulness, boundless joy and above all, a sense of unwavering contentment.
“We are bowing out of service at a critical moment when our beloved country is going through a number of challenges and the Nigerian Armed Forces are playing a very critical role in combating these challenges by being deployed to carry out internal security duties.”
He admonished all serving personnel to be loyal, dedicated and highly professional in the execution of their duties.
“I urge you to avoid actions that will bring the name and image of the Ordinance Corps and indeed the Nigerian Army to disrepute.
“Let me also remind you of the Oath of Allegiance, to which we all swore on commission, which is to be loyal to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to protect her territorial integrity from external aggression.
“In this regard, you must continue to demonstrate a total commitment to your duty to the nation without any form of bias or involvement in partisan politics.
“As my colleagues and I bid you all farewell today, I would like to appreciate the Nigerian Army for giving us the opportunity to serve our fatherland in different capacities within and outside the country,” he said,
He added “I must respectfully appreciate the present Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and all the past COAS for their vision and deliberate focus towards ensuring a vibrant Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, that is capable of sustaining the Nigerian Army both in peace and war.
“I am confident that the corps will continue to offer valuable support to the Nigerian Army.”
