By OLADAPO UDOM

The Nigerian Army Signals (NAS) on Friday pulled out 16 senior officers, comprising brigadier generals and major generals.

The Special Guest of Honour, Maj.-Gen. Abiodun Owolabi (rtd.), who spoke on behalf of the retirees at the pull-out ceremony at Apapa in Lagos, said the corps’ contributions had remained critical to the operational successes of the Nigerian Army.

Owolabi said the corps’ ability to deliver secure, timely and uninterrupted communications, as well as enhance situational awareness, continued to serve as a vital enabler of mission accomplishment across all theatres.

“It is a matter of great pride that we contributed, in our own modest ways, to this transformation and the strengthening of the Nigerian Army’s operational effectiveness.

“We are proud to observe that the current leadership of the corps continues to build on these contributions, both in operational capacity and in improving the welfare of officers and soldiers.

“As senior officers, we also bore the responsibility of mentoring and shaping the next generation of leaders,” he said.

He said leadership in the military was not only about command, but also about building institutions, developing personnel and transmitting enduring values.

“Today, it is gratifying to see many of those we mentored occupying key leadership positions and upholding the traditions of excellence within the Nigerian Army and NAS in particular.

“We owe a debt of gratitude to our mentors, senior officers, instructors and colleagues who guided, challenged and inspired us to attain greater heights.

“Their wisdom and encouragement were instrumental to our professional and personal development,” he said.

Owolabi said the strength of the Nigerian Army lies in character, competence and commitment to duty, adding that leadership demands courage, integrity and responsibility.

He urged serving personnel, particularly younger officers and soldiers, to uphold professional values and remain disciplined and committed to excellence.

“Lead your troops with fairness, train them diligently and always place the mission and the welfare of your men at the centre of your decisions.

“The world continues to evolve, and the challenges facing our Armed Forces remain complex. However, I am confident in your capability and commitment to address them,” he said.

Owolabi said the retirees had witnessed and contributed to the transformation of the Nigerian Army over the years.

“Over time, the Army has evolved from conventional force structures to a more adaptive, joint and multi-agency force capable of addressing emerging security challenges.

“As a personal reflection, serving as the pioneer Commander of the 57 Signal Brigade provided invaluable experience in command, strategic leadership and national defence coordination.

“Being entrusted with higher responsibility as Corps Commander, Nigerian Army Signals, was both an honour and a testament to the confidence reposed in me,” he said.

He said behind every successful military career were families who bore the unseen burden of service, appreciating their wives, children and loved ones for their sacrifices.

“We owe them an immeasurable debt of gratitude for enduring long separations, frequent relocations and the uncertainties associated with military life.

“Your prayers, resilience, patience and unwavering support made it possible for us to serve with dedication.

“Today’s honour also belongs to you,” he said.

Owolabi paid tribute to colleagues who died in the line of duty.

“Their sacrifice remains the foundation upon which the Nigerian Army stands.

“We honour their memory and reaffirm our commitment to the ideals for which they paid the supreme price,” he said.

He said as they took their final salutes, they did so with a deep sense of fulfilment and gratitude to God and the Nigerian Army.

“As we transition into retirement, we do not see this as a withdrawal from service, but a continuation in another form.

“We will remain ambassadors of the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Army Signals, ready to contribute our experience whenever called upon.

“On behalf of all the retiring generals, I appreciate the leadership of the Nigerian Army, NAS and all well-wishers for being part of this journey,” Owolabi said. (NAN)

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