The Nigerian Army on Thursday officially retired 18 senior officers of the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport (NACST) after 35 years of distinguished service. The ceremony marked the conclusion of a three-day conference in Benin, the Edo State capital, themed “Optimising Supply and Transport Capabilities Towards Providing Effective Service Delivery to NA Operations in All Missions.”
The colourful pulling-out parade saw the retirement of four Major Generals and 14 Brigadier Generals, all of whom have dedicated decades of service to the Nigerian Army. Speaking at the ceremony, the Corps Commander, Maj.-Gen. Danjuma Shagaya, lauded the officers for their commitment and exemplary service from commissioning to retirement. He described the event as both a celebration of achievement and a formal recognition of the officers’ contributions to national security.
“It is a joyous moment for the Corps of Supply and Transport, as current and former Corps Commanders are present to honour and celebrate these distinguished officers,” Shagaya said. He explained that the pulling-out ceremony is a longstanding military tradition designed to honour years of dedication and sacrifice. He also commended the Chief of Army Staff for recognising the officers’ service by sending a representative to grace the occasion.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Maj.-Gen. Olaniyi Dare highlighted the significant roles the officers played in operational, command, and staff functions over their careers. He noted the centrality of the Corps of Supply and Transport in sustaining the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army, ensuring that soldiers deployed across various theatres of operation were adequately supported.
“Our careers spanned decades, from training and peace support missions to internal security operations within and outside the country. Throughout, the corps remained committed to delivering reliable and efficient logistics support,” Dare said.
Reflecting on the transition into retirement, he emphasised that their commitment to the ideals and values of the Nigerian Army would remain steadfast. “We will continue to serve as ambassadors of the corps and remain available to contribute our experience and knowledge whenever called upon,” he added.
Dare also paid tribute to the families of the retirees, acknowledging the sacrifices and patience required by military life. “Military life often demands long separations, personal sacrifices, and constant movement. Their understanding and encouragement made it possible for us to fulfil our duties with dedication,” he said.
The ceremony served not only as a celebration but also as a symbolic moment to reflect on decades of service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to national defence.
