The Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ilo, has charged retiring military personnel to remain worthy ambassadors of the Armed Forces by upholding the values of discipline, integrity, patriotism and selfless service as they prepare to transition into civilian life.
AVM Ilo gave the charge during an Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service held at St. Martin De Porres Catholic Church, NAFRC, Oshodi, as part of activities marking the Passing Out Ceremony of Pre-Discharge Course 1/2026.
The thanksgiving service brought together Christian trainees, staff, family members and well-wishers in an atmosphere of worship and gratitude to God for the successful completion of the six-month resettlement training programme and the participants’ meritorious years of service in the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the NAFRC Commandant described the occasion as a moment of gratitude and reflection. He congratulated the trainees on the successful completion of the course and urged them to put into productive use the entrepreneurial and vocational skills acquired at the Centre as they begin a new chapter of life after military service.
He emphasized the need for the retiring personnel to continue to uphold the ideals of the Armed Forces and serve as positive role models in their communities.
In his remarks, the Chaplain, Navy Captain Robert Oparaji, encouraged the retiring personnel to continue contributing positively to society through exemplary conduct and by deploying the wealth of experience gained during their years in service. He urged them to remain committed to nation-building and maintain cordial relationships within their communities.
Delivering a sermon titled “Give Thanks to God,” Army Warrant Officer Stanley Ebuwa underscored the importance of gratitude and faith at every stage of life. He reminded the congregation of God’s mercies throughout their years of service and encouraged them to continually offer thanks and praise to Him.
Earlier, as part of activities lined up for the Passing Out Ceremony, the Centre held a special Juma’at Prayer at the NAFRC Central Mosque for Muslim faithful.
Representing the Commandant at the prayer session, Navy Captain M.R. Adamu noted that retirement presents an opportunity for personnel to spend quality time with their families while applying the knowledge and experience acquired during their years of service and training.
He urged the trainees to remain good ambassadors of the Armed Forces by promoting peace, mentoring younger generations and contributing positively to the development of their communities.
The religious activities formed an integral part of the Passing Out Ceremony programme, providing participants with an opportunity to seek divine guidance and blessings as they prepare to embark on a new phase of life after military service.
The events also underscored NAFRC’s commitment to fostering spiritual growth, moral values and responsible citizenship among retiring personnel, while equipping them for a productive and impactful life beyond the military.
