The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has emphasized that retirement from active military duty does not mark the end of service to the nation, but the beginning of a new phase of leadership and contribution, especially as Nigeria navigates complex security and social challenges.

Abbas made the remarks at the Passing Out Ceremony of 576 participants of Course 2/2025 at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Lagos, where he was Special Guest of Honour. Represented by Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Abbas described the event as a solemn tribute to officers who dedicated decades of their lives to the nation.

“Retirement is not the end of service, but the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunity, peace, and promise,” he stated. Abbas encouraged retirees to leverage their experience to contribute to community development, support local security initiatives, and promote peace and stability while remaining law-abiding and patriotic.

Highlighting the graduates’ past service in wars, counter-insurgency operations, peacekeeping missions, and humanitarian interventions, Abbas said, “You have demonstrated resilience and fortitude that define the Nigerian Armed Forces. Your contributions to national security remain indelible.”

He advised retirees to apply the vocational, entrepreneurial, and management skills acquired at NAFRC while cautioning that post-service life demands prudence, self-discipline, and adaptability. He warned against unwise investments and negative influences, noting that the Centre’s training is designed to prepare personnel for productive post-service lives.

Abbas commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting military welfare and development, and praised the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for their leadership. He also acknowledged the dedication of NAFRC staff and the sacrifices of the graduates’ families.

Earlier, the Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman, noted that the Centre has trained over 54,000 retiring personnel, equipping them with skills for self-sustenance and community development. Mamman highlighted the Centre’s partnerships, including with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), to train officers in business registration and entrepreneurship.

He added that the Centre is exploring agriculture, renewable energy, and e-learning initiatives, including a 30-hectare agricultural project in Epe in partnership with the Lagos State Government, and upgrading ICT infrastructure to extend training beyond physical attendance.