Kaduna: Nigerian Army's 1 Division Fetes Four Retiring Personnel

Four members of the Nigerian Army's 1 Division were recently celebrated during a send-off event in Kaduna, acknowledging their imminent retirement. The gathering, which took place on Wednesday at the 1 Division Auditorium, was detailed in a Thursday update on the Army’s X account. Major General Abubakar Wase, who serves as the General Officer Commanding 1 Division and also leads Sector 1 Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, presided over the occasion. The ceremony aimed to commend these individuals for their steadfast commitment, allegiance, and sacrifices made in service to Nigeria over their careers.

During his address at the event, Major General Wase lauded the departing service members for their “steadfast commitment and invaluable contributions” to the Nigerian Army. He further highlighted that the ceremony itself underscored the “deep bond and esprit de corps” prevalent within the military, emphasizing that these relationships extend beyond mere rank distinctions.

Major General Wase stated that this gesture exemplifies the Nigerian Army's ingrained practice of acknowledging service members who have contributed meritoriously to the nation. He then encouraged the transitioning personnel to “judiciously invest and manage” their post-service entitlements as they embark on their new phase in civilian life.

Furthermore, Wase reassured the departing officers that their connection to the Nigerian Army family would endure. He exhorted them to keep their links with the military community strong and to continue exemplifying the rigorous disciplinary standards synonymous with their time in service.

The four individuals receiving accolades at the ceremony included Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Ladi Mustapha from Headquarters 1 Division; MWO Oche Sunday, who served as Chief Clerk at Headquarters 1 Division; Warrant Officer Obile Mu’azu, also from Headquarters 1 Division; and Mr Oyagha Theophilus, associated with 1 Division Finance.

Representing his fellow retirees, MWO Oche Sunday conveyed gratitude to the GOC and the entire leadership of 1 Division for the invaluable opportunity to serve the nation. He extended thanks to the command for the “guidance, mentorship, and unwavering encouragement” that had supported them throughout their professional journeys.

Sunday affirmed that the collective experiences and cherished memories accumulated during their years of service would stand as “invaluable assets” as they transition into the subsequent phase of their lives. The event concluded with the presentation of special gifts and commemorative souvenirs to each retiree, capped off by group photographs to mark this significant career milestone.