NAFRC

The Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, on Sunday held an Interdenominational Thanksgiving Church Service in honour of the retiring participants of Course 01/2025.

The event, which took place at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church within the Centre, was attended by senior military officers, families, friends, and members of the NAFRC community who gathered to celebrate the gallant servicemen and women for their years of selfless service to the nation.

Representing the Commandant, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman, the Deputy Commandant, Major General I.O. Oloyede, described the ceremony as a moment of profound gratitude to God for His guidance and protection over the retirees throughout their military careers.

“Today, we are not just marking the end of a professional journey; we are celebrating a legacy,” he said. “These men and women have served the Armed Forces of Nigeria with courage, honour, discipline, and loyalty. They have answered the call of duty, often in the most difficult circumstances, with dignity and distinction.”

He emphasised that the thanksgiving service served not just as a religious tradition, but as a reminder of divine providence. He praised the retirees as heroes, role models, and torchbearers of a proud military heritage, urging them to remain engaged in nation-building, even after retirement.

“Retirement is not an end, but a transition into a new season — one that still requires your wisdom, leadership, and service to the nation,” he added.

The Commandant also paid special tribute to the families and loved ones of the retirees, acknowledging their silent sacrifices and unwavering support. “You stood by them, bore emotional burdens, and supported their service with love. Today, we honour you too,” he noted.

He extended his appreciation to the Service Chiefs, especially the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (OFR), for their consistent support to the Centre, and also lauded the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast leadership and commitment to national development.

Also addressing trainees, Captain(NN) Rev. Fr RE Oparaji advised the retirees not to forget God in their post-service life. He urged them to continually seek divine direction and be wary of individuals who may attempt to exploit them financially. “Avoid unfriendly friends who are only interested in what they can gain from you,” he cautioned.

Delivering the sermon, the Chaplain, Master Warrant Officer Ibrahim Saleh, spoke on the theme of “Finishing Well and Strong.” He encouraged the retirees to reflect on their journey with gratitude and to recognise that it was God who sustained them through the trials and triumphs of service. He stressed the importance of giving thanks and remaining faithful in the new chapter of their lives.

In a related development, the Commandant also addressed participants at the NAFRC Course 01/2025 Sports Competition — one of the lined-up activities for the upcoming Passing Out Ceremony.

Describing the event as a celebration of unity and resilience, AVM Mamman praised the spirit of camaraderie, discipline, and determination displayed by the retirees during the games.

“Whether on the field or in the line of duty, you have exemplified excellence and dedication,” he stated. “Retirement is a new beginning — a fresh race to run and new victories to win for yourselves, your families, and your communities.”

He congratulated all participants, regardless of their medal count, and declared everyone a winner. He further appreciated the organisers, officials, and volunteers for their outstanding contributions to the success of the sporting event.