Abuja: Retired officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have been urged to remain steadfast, loyal, and committed to Nigeria’s unity, security, and development, even in retirement. The call came as the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Regular Course 37 Alumni Association marked its 40th anniversary with a dinner in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event brought together retired senior military officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force who were commissioned in 1989 after joining the Academy as cadets in 1985. Retired Maj.-Gen. Paul Tarfa, Chairman of the North-East Development Commission and former Commandant of the NDA, commended members of Course 37 for upholding discipline, courage, and professionalism throughout their careers. Tarfa, who received the cadets of the course into the academy, said the retired officers had played their parts gallantly and diligently, adding that the nation was proud of them. He also urged them to continue to promote unity and patriotism among retired officers, adding that the nation would be stronger if they remained united.
Retired Maj.-Gen. Bashir Magashi, a former Minister of Defence and former Commandant of the NDA, congratulated members of the course for sustaining their bond and contributing immensely to the country’s defense and peace efforts. Magashi described the 40th anniversary as a celebration of endurance, loyalty, and professional excellence that strengthened the armed forces and safeguarded national integrity.
In his opening remarks, the President of the Alumni Association, retired Rear Adm. Akinga Ayafa, said the reunion was a moment of gratitude and reflection, as well as a renewed commitment to national service beyond active duty. Ayafa recalled the class’s formative years at the NDA, their pioneering role in the academy’s degree-awarding program, and the tough training that shaped their discipline and resolve. He commended Tarfa for his visionary leadership and paid tribute to the instructors and lecturers who nurtured the course’s success.
Ayafa noted that members of Course 37 rose to high command and leadership roles, including Chief of Army Staff, Commandants, Vice Chancellor, and Directors-General, while also contributing in diplomacy, academia, and private enterprise. The gathering also honored deceased members, described as ‘brothers’ whose sacrifices forever bind them to the ideals of duty and service. The course president extended appreciation to their wives, known as ’37RC Excellent Queens’, for their enduring support during years of deployment and sacrifice.
The dinner was attended by former Chiefs of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, senior officers, and families, featuring tributes, awards, and cultural displays celebrating 40 years of friendship and service.