The Nigerian Army has retired eight generals. They are Maj.-Gen. Philip Eremosele, Maj.-Gen. Gabriel Ochigbano, Maj.-Gen. MNB Mamman, Maj.-Gen. Tonye Numbere, Maj.-Gen. JD Omali, Brig.-Gen. SN Bitrus, Brig.-Gen. AO Olajimedi and Brig.-Gen. KF Suleiman.

All were of the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineering.

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Friday congratulated the eight retiring generals for their meritorious service to the nation.

Shaibu, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. Adewale Adekeye, Chief of Personnel Management, gave the commendation at the rowing-out ceremony at the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME) in Makurdi, Benue State.

The COAS, who wished them the very best in the next phase of their lives, said that some of the retirees were mentors to many serving officers.

“We, their colleagues still serving, will continue to remain loyal, dedicated, disciplined and professional.

“We will also remain loyal to constituted authorities in the discharge of our responsibilities,” he said.

Maj.-Gen. Philip Eremosele (Rtd), who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, said that they felt highly fulfilled after more than three decades in service.

Eremosele thanked the President and COAS for the opportunity to serve in various capacities.

He urged those in service to remain loyal to constituted authorities and dedicated towards addressing the myriads of security challenges facing the nation.

Eremosele urged them to work together, as the challenges were surmountable with unity of purpose.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the rowing-out ceremony was heralded by a parade in honour of the retired senior officers.

NAN also reports that the retiring officers were ferried across River Benue in a military boat to draw the curtain on their military careers. (Adapted from a NAN report)