The Nigerian Army in Kano honoured 22 retiring senior soldiers after completing 35 years of dedicated service to the nation.
The Nigerian Army has organized a grand military send-off ceremony to honour 22 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers attached to the Headquarters 3 Brigade and its affiliated units after completing 35 years of active, loyal, and dedicated service to the armed forces and the nation.
The colourful retirement ceremony was held on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the Bukavu Barracks in Kano State, bringing together top military officers, soldiers, and family members to celebrate the veteran soldiers.
The Commander of the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, presided over the special event, presenting official awards, commendation letters, and retirement gifts to each of the 22 retiring senior soldiers.
Addressing the audience and praising the retiring personnel for their long years of sacrifice in keeping the country safe from security threats, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh stated that thirty-five years of active military duty requires high discipline, bravery, and personal sacrifice.
Praising the retiring senior soldiers for their unwavering dedication throughout their three decades in service, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh stated: “The army is deeply grateful for your thirty-five years of selfless service, loyalty, and commitment to the defence of our great country, Nigeria.”
The Brigade Commander urged the retiring soldiers to maintain high discipline, patriotism, and respect for law and order as they transition back into civilian life after decades of active service in military uniform.
Encouraging the veterans to serve as good ambassadors of the Nigerian Army in their various home communities, the military chief added: “As you enter civilian life, carry with you the discipline and values of the armed forces, and continue to contribute positively to the development of your communities.”
Speaking on behalf of all the 22 retired senior non-commissioned officers, the most senior retiring soldier expressed deep gratitude to Almighty God and the leadership of the Nigerian Army for guiding them safely through 35 years of military operations without major disaster.
Thanking the military authority for organizing a grand send-off party in their honour and allowing them to serve the fatherland, the representative of the retirees noted: “We thank God Almighty for sparing our lives to see this glorious day after serving our nation for 35 years, and we appreciate the Nigerian Army for this great honour.”
The high-profile event concluded with a special military luncheon organized inside the military mess hall, where senior officers joined the retirees and their families to eat, share happy memories, and take memorable group photographs.
Military officers and local leaders across Kano State have showered praise on the retired veterans for their long years of service to Nigeria.
Jennifer Baba is a journalist, international news correspondent, and writer at Moderncrux, where she covers artificial intelligence, fintech, emerging technologies, global politics, and international affairs. Based in Nigeria, she is passionate about transforming complex global developments into clear, engaging stories that inform and inspire readers.
