The Nigerian Army has placed an indefinite suspension on both statutory and voluntary retirements for specific categories of officers, following the nationwide security emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu.
The move is part of efforts to retain experienced personnel as the military intensifies operations against escalating security threats.
Details of the directive were contained in an internal memo dated December 3 and signed by Major General E. I. Okoro on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff.
The communication explained that the freeze on retirement is intended to safeguard manpower levels, technical competence and operational capacity across formations.
The memo, which cited provisions in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service for Officers 2024, recalled that retirement is normally triggered by age limits, completion of 35 years in service or failure in promotion and conversion processes.
However, it noted that the rules allow for extensions where necessary in the interest of the service.
“The President and Commander-in-Chief declared a nationwide security emergency on November 26, mandating the expansion of the AFN and other security agencies.
“In line with this, and to rapidly expand manpower, it has become expedient to temporarily suspend all statutory and voluntary retirements from the Nigerian Army with immediate effect,” the memo said.
Under the temporary policy, the suspension covers officers who have failed promotion examinations three times, those passed over for promotion three times, those who have hit rank-related age limits, officers who failed conversion boards thrice, and those who have put in 35 years of service.
The document added that affected officers who wish to remain in service are required to apply for service extensions.
“Officers in these categories who are not interested in extension of service are to continue with the normal retirement procedure. Officers desirous of extension should note that upon extension, they are not eligible for career progression, including promotion, career courses, NA sponsorship, self-sponsored courses, secondment, or extra-regimental appointments,” it said.