The Nigerian Army has withdrawn 15 retired generals from the ‘Gunners Family,’ a group known for its association with artillery. This decision comes as part of ongoing efforts to restructure and streamline the military operations.
Retired Maj.-Gen. James Myam urged the 15 retired generals from the Nigerian Army’s Artillery Corps to remain loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the democratically elected government. On Saturday, the Nigerian Army officially pulled these officers out of active service at the Nigerian Army School of Artillery (NASA) in Kachia, Kaduna State. Among those retired, 11 held the rank of Major General, while four were Brigadier Generals. Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Myam expressed their fulfillment, stating, “Having come this far, we can only say that we feel highly fulfilled and give all the glory to the Lord God Almighty for His benevolent mercies, grace, and preservation over the years.”
“I would like to express our profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for granting us the opportunity to serve our great nation in this capacity. We also extend our thanks to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and pray fervently that the Almighty God continues to grant you the strength and wisdom to lead the Nigerian Army to greater heights.
“On behalf of the retired senior officers of the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery, we commemorate this significant occasion of our final disengagement from active service in the Nigerian Army and indeed the Armed Forces of our great nation, Nigeria.”
“Today is indeed a unique landmark for us as we retire to a well-deserved rest after serving our dear country meritoriously,” Myam stated. He reflected on their military careers, recalling how they began their journeys by leaving their various homes across the nation to train as Officer Cadets at the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna.
Myam imparted words of wisdom to serving officers, emphasizing the importance of loyalty, vigilance, and security consciousness. He also shared three key traits that guided him as an artillery officer: empathy, proactiveness, and effective communication.
“To those of you who are determined to make the military a career, please note that our country is enjoying full-fledged democratic governance, marking the end of military involvement,” he stated. Myam urged the officers to remain loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the democratically elected government.
Myam noted that the government has been proactive in ensuring the Armed Forces have the necessary resources to fulfill their constitutional roles. He expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army and the Corps of Artillery, encouraging the “Gunners Family” to continue striving for excellence.
Additionally, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the ceremony was attended by former Chief of Army Staff retired Maj.-Gen. Alwali Kazir and other senior retired and serving military officers.
