Army pulls out 10 Generals in colourful valedictory parade

By Ayox Ojo

Ten senior officers of the Finance Corps of the Nigerian Army (NAFC) were pulled out of the military at a colourful valedictory parade in Lagos on Friday.

Highlights of the ceremony included the pulling-out parade, a ceremonial march-past, and group photographs. Lt. Col Musa Uahaya, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army said.

The colourful ceremony held at Nigerian Army School of Signals Parade Ground, Apapa, Lagos had as Special Guest of Honour (SGOH), Major General Kamal Ishola Yusuf (Rtd) who described the ceremony as one of the most colourful and dignified valedictory parades he had ever witnessed.

The ceremony was attended by serving and retired senior officers of the Finance Corps, former Chiefs of Army Staff, Corps Commanders, Commandants of Defence and Nigerian Army Institutions, formation commanders, captains of industry, heads of financial institutions, as well as families, friends, and well-wishers of the retired senior officers.

Speaking on behalf of the other retired Generals, Major General Yusuf noted that the military remains one of the few institutions that steadfastly uphold the pulling- out tradition.

He stressed that such customs form the backbone of its identity and shape its discipline, ethos, and collective sense of purpose.

He affirmed that the pulling-out parade was a clear testament that the Nigerian Army and the Finance Corps continue to flourish by preserving and honouring their noble heritage.

The retired senior officers include; Major General KI Yusuf, Major General AA Fayemiwo, Major General J Mohammed, Major General RN Ochei, Major General MO Ihanuwaze, Major General M Galadima, Major General SA Gumel, Brigadier General EA Obona, Brigadier General AS Maikano, and Brigadier General MK Baba-Mallam.

Major General Yusuf expressed gratitude to God Almighty for preserving their lives throughout their years of service and thanked the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Army Finance Corps. He also acknowledged the dedication and commitment of the Chief of Accounts and Budget (Army), Major General TT Sidick, whose tireless efforts ensured the success of the event.

Dignitaries were later treated to a reception at Command Finance Office with musical interludes, comedy show, life band, and cultural troupe display with sumptuous meals and assorted drinks.