By Oladapo Udom

Major-Gen. Ademoh Salihu (rtd.) on Friday called on military personnel to be patriotic, creative and vigilant, especially at a time when the nation is facing various security challenges.

Salihu, who was the Special Guest of Honor at the 2023 Nigerian Army Signals Retirement Ceremony for retired senior officers, said security challenges had required several kinetic operations, which had placed high demands on the Nigerian Army. .

“Therefore, I urge serving military personnel to continue to be loyal, creative, and more vigilant.

“It must continue to demonstrate a total commitment to the security of the nation as it has demonstrated in the successes registered in the fight against the insurgency in the country.

“Nigerians, especially us retirees, we expect a lot from you,” the major general said.

The Nigerian News Agency (NAN) reports that Maj. Gen. Ademoh Salihu (rtd.) was a commander of the Nigerian Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC).

According to Salihu, the one-time ceremony spelled the end of their military careers after approximately 35 years of active duty.

“I am therefore deeply grateful to Almighty God for his grace, guidance, wisdom, and protection throughout our years of service.

“I am very happy to witness this event alive and in good health. It is also a premise that everything that has a beginning must ultimately have an end,” she said.

Salihu said the Pulling Out Parade was organized to honor retired generals in recognition of faultless military service to the nation and dates back to the colonial era.

“The occasion brings together serving and retired officers, as well as other supporters, to bid farewell to retired generals as they transition into retirement life.

“It is in this sense that this ceremony is arranged to celebrate myself and other retired Signal Corps colleagues for our successful military careers,” he said.

The Major General took the opportunity to encourage the officers and servicemen of the Nigerian Army Signals to prepare soon for retirement.

“I still remember my cadet days at the Nigerian Defense Academy like yesterday.

“You shouldn’t assume that 35 years is a long time and waste precious time thinking you have enough time to plan for your retirement.

“Please do your best to get everything you need to put in place well in advance, so you don’t put yourself under any unnecessary pressure after retirement,” he said.

Salihu added that they should build good, healthy relationships based on mutual trust and respect, and engage well with colleagues in the Armed Forces, friends outside of the service, and family members.

He thanked the Chief of the Army General Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya, for his support to the Signal Corps and for the approval of resources to carry out this withdrawal ceremony.

“I am particularly delighted with the revival of some of the Nigerian Army traditions and customs that are almost forgotten.

“I also wish to humbly thank the Signal Corps Commander, Major General Garba Abdullahi, for his selflessness in hosting this memorable ceremony to honor our departure,” Salihu said.

NAN also reports that 18 senior officers have been removed from the Nigerian Army signals. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ifeyinwa Omowole