The Nigerian Army has suspended all statutory and voluntary retirements for certain categories of officers following the nationwide security emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu. In November alone, over 600 cases of mass abductions were recorded, including the kidnapping of more than 300 students in Niger State, 38 worshippers in Kwara State, and 25 students in Kebbi State.
In response, President Tinubu announced a nationwide security emergency on November 26, directing military, police, and intelligence agencies to expand recruitment and deploy thousands of additional personnel. An internal memo dated December 3, signed by Maj. Gen. E. I. Okoro on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, stated that the suspension of retirements was to retain manpower, experience, and operational capacity as the Armed Forces respond to rising insecurity.
The memo referenced the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service Officers (HTACOS) 2024, highlighting that while officers are typically expected to retire upon reaching their age limit or completing 35 years of service, service extension is permissible in the military’s interest according to Paragraph 3.10(e). The temporary suspension applies to officers who meet specific conditions, including those who failed promotion examinations three times, were passed over three times at promotion boards, reached the age ceiling for their ranks, failed conversion boards three times, or attained 35 years of service.
Affected officers may apply to continue their service beyond their normal retirement dates, although those opting for extension will not be eligible for further career progression, including promotions. The memo emphasized that officers in these categories who are not interested in extension of service are to continue with the normal retirement procedure. Commanders are directed to disseminate this directive and manage morale, with the policy subject to review as the security situation improves.
Dr. Awwal Abdullahi, Secretary-General of the Military Veterans Federation of Nigeria, welcomed the decision, arguing that retaining experienced personnel is crucial amid insecurity. He suggested a system where retiring officers could report directly to their superiors to maintain command structures. Retired Brigadier General Peter Aro called the measure a “reasonable short-term emergency response,” emphasizing the need for enhanced welfare and financial incentives for those who extend their service.
Other retired officers, including Brigadier General Bashir Adewinbi, endorsed the suspension as a practical step to stabilize command. Many emphasized the need for appropriate welfare packages to encourage participation in extended service. The memo and its implications will be closely monitored as the Army continues to address the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria.
