Former Chief of Defence Staff and former Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Ola Sa'ad Ibrahim (Rtd), has urged retired military personnel not to allow retirement to diminish their relevance, stressing that their experience, leadership, and professional knowledge remain vital to Nigeria's development and national security.
Admiral Ibrahim made the call while delivering his remarks as the Special Guest of Honour at the dinner marking the 41st Reunion Anniversary of the Nigerian Naval College 6th Regular Course "Onura" Alumni Association, held at the National Defence College, Abuja.
Speaking on the theme of lifelong relevance, the retired naval chief observed that retirement often "draws a curtain" over people's lives, but insisted that former military officers must resist such a mindset by continuing to contribute meaningfully to society.
"Retirement tends to draw a curtain over your life, except you insist that you do not allow that to happen," he said. "Nigeria still needs your experience, wisdom, discipline, and leadership."
Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with the Nigerian Naval College Onura, Admiral Ibrahim recounted his early involvement with the institution during its formative years and praised the vision behind its establishment. He noted that the quality of officers produced by the college has continued to justify the confidence reposed in the institution.
Paying tribute to deceased members of the course, he urged the alumni to cherish the values of unity, friendship, and mutual support, describing "the wealth of brotherhood" as one of the greatest legacies of military service.
He also challenged the retired officers to remain intellectually engaged and actively contribute to national discourse, particularly at a time when global security dynamics are rapidly evolving.
According to him, changing international alliances, weakening global institutions, and increasing uncertainty in international relations demand that Nigeria reduce its dependence on foreign support and pursue greater national self-reliance.
Admiral Ibrahim called on Nigerians, especially retired senior military officers, to contribute ideas that would strengthen the nation's security architecture and strategic independence.
"The journey towards national greatness begins with a single step," he said, urging the audience to support efforts that would position Nigeria among the world's leading powers.
He further encouraged spouses to continue supporting their husbands in retirement, describing family support as essential to successful post-service life.
Earlier in his welcome address, President of the Nigerian Naval College 6th Regular Course "Onura" Alumni Association, Commodore Alex Nimyel (Rtd), welcomed guests and described the reunion as both a celebration of the course's 40th and 41st anniversaries after last year's event was postponed following the death of Commodore B.M. Idriss and the illness of another course member.
Commodore Nimyel recalled that members of the course commenced their military journey on 8 July 1985 at the Nigerian Naval College Onura and went on to serve the Nigerian Navy with distinction in various operational and command appointments within and outside Nigeria.
He said the reunion provided an opportunity to celebrate over four decades of friendship, professional excellence, and dedicated service to the nation while honouring colleagues who had passed on.
The alumni president also paid glowing tribute to Admiral Ibrahim, describing him as a leader whose diligence, professionalism, and commitment to justice left lasting reforms in the Nigerian Navy.
He noted that the former naval chief introduced important administrative and operational policies that continue to shape the service today and commended his leadership philosophy of "goodwill to all men."
The event featured the presentation of gifts to members of the association and to the spouses of deceased course members in recognition of their sacrifices and continued connection with the Onura family.
Guests were also treated to colourful cultural performances and comedy presentations, bringing the memorable reunion celebration to a close amid renewed commitments to unity, camaraderie, and continued service to Nigeria.
