Members of the Nigerian Army Direct Regular Course 4/1993 recently gathered in Abuja to celebrate their 30th anniversary and hold their maiden general meeting. The event took place at the Scorpion Officers’ Mess, bringing together surviving members of the association and their families, many of whom hadn’t seen each other in thirty years.
During the occasion, Brigadier-General Tunde Ogbeha, the special guest of honor and former Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI) when the officers underwent training, addressed the members. He urged the predominantly professional group to continue contributing their expertise to critical national issues and development, particularly in the face of the country’s ongoing security challenges. Gen Ogbeha commended them for their past contributions to the Nigerian Army and encouraged them not to stop making a difference even after retirement.
Brigadier-General Sani Usman, the chairman of the association and former director of army public relations, emphasized the significance of reunions and anniversary celebrations among coursemates. He highlighted the opportunity for members and their families to reconnect, reminisce about their training years and beyond, and strengthen relationships. Usman expressed the belief that the reunion would facilitate constructive discussions to reposition the association, ensuring the well-being of its members and enabling them to make meaningful contributions to national development, peace, and security.
Usman also expressed sadness over the loss of over 20 coursemates out of the 117 who underwent training. He acknowledged their absence and extended prayers for their families. He thanked the spouses and families of the association members for their unwavering love, care, and support, which played a crucial role in their careers and personal lives.
Reflecting on their journey from the selection board to the rigorous officer cadets’ training at NASI in Jaji three decades ago, Usman highlighted the challenges and rewards they experienced. He acknowledged the individuals who contributed to their course and association, providing committed leadership and training that shaped them into fine officers. He celebrated the accomplishments of the members, including notable ranks, awards, and positions attained during their military service.
In conclusion, Usman emphasized the importance of embracing the opportunity to reconnect and celebrate enduring friendships. He encouraged members to engage in constructive discussions to reposition the association, enhance the well-being of its members, and make substantial contributions to national development, peace, and security. He expressed confidence in their collective ability to make a difference and emphasized the unity and camaraderie among them.