The Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Air Vice Marshal BR Mamman, has formally inaugurated participants of Course 01/2025 at the Centre in Oshodi, Lagos.
The inaugural address was delivered on Tuesday, January 23, 2025, to mark the commencement of the six-month pre-retirement course aimed at equipping retiring military personnel with the necessary skills for seamless reintegration into civilian life.
Addressing the 540 participants present on parade, AVM Mamman congratulated them on their nomination for the highly coveted course, which he described as a “citadel of hope and courage.” He noted that the programme is designed to provide quality vocational training and management education in fields such as entrepreneurship, retirement planning, financial management, ICT, health, and safety practices. The training aims to empower participants to establish profitable ventures and live meaningful lives post-service.
“Feedback from past participants indicates that many graduates of this Centre have become thriving entrepreneurs and even employers of labor,” the Commandant remarked. He urged participants to make the most of the opportunity, emphasizing punctuality, discipline, and active engagement throughout the course.
AVM Mamman highlighted the Centre’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive curriculum tailored to meet the needs of retiring personnel. He assured participants of access to experienced instructors and resource persons who are dedicated to their success. The training will also feature sessions with representatives from the Military Pensions Board to address concerns regarding retirement benefits.
Participants were encouraged to maintain discipline, mutual respect, and active participation in all scheduled activities. The Commandant also stressed the importance of utilizing available counseling services and recreational facilities to ensure mental, physical, and spiritual well-being during the programme.
The Commandant reiterated the importance of discipline and adherence to the Armed Forces Act, warning against absenteeism, misconduct, and social media misuse. A minimum of 90% attendance is required to receive a Certificate of Course Completion, and acts of indiscipline will attract sanctions.
Brigadier General IO Olatunji, the Director of Training, also addressed the participants, emphasizing the Centre’s mandate to prepare them for reintegration into civilian society. He highlighted the Centre’s world-class facilities and reiterated the expectation of high levels of discipline and commitment from participants.
“Of the 604 participants posted to Course 01/2025, 540 are on parade today. Twenty-seven are yet to report, while 37 have been returned to their units due to medical unfitness,” Brigadier General Olatunji disclosed. He assured participants that their safety and comfort within the Cantonment remain a priority.
In conclusion, AVM Mamman urged participants to embrace the training as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to develop skills for personal growth and self-sustenance. He assured them of the Centre’s support and commitment to creating a conducive learning environment.
With the official inauguration of Course 01/2025 participants, the NAFRC remains steadfast in its mission to prepare retiring personnel for a fulfilling life after decades of service to the nation.
