The Nigerian Army has placed an immediate stop to the statutory and voluntary retirement of more than 800 officers as part of emergency steps to strengthen the ongoing national security operations.
A source at the Army Headquarters in Abuja confirmed the development on Sunday and said the directive was issued through a memo signed by the Military Secretary on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu.
The memo explains that the decision is tied to the nationwide security emergency declared by Tinubu on 26 November. The order mandates the Armed Forces and other security agencies to expand their manpower and widen their operational presence across the country.
The suspension affects officers who have reached their age ceiling, completed 35 years in service, failed promotion exams three times, or were passed over at promotion boards. It also covers officers who failed conversion boards or were already due for exit this year.
According to the document, affected officers may apply to remain in service beyond their scheduled retirement date. It states clearly that anyone unwilling to continue should follow the normal retirement process.
The memo also notes that officers who accept the extension will not be considered for promotions, career courses, foreign sponsorships, secondments or extra-regimental appointments during the period.
Commanders have been asked to inform affected personnel and manage any concerns that may arise as a result of the directive. The Army says the suspension is temporary and will be reviewed when the security situation improves.
The Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service 2024 provides legal backing for the decision, especially the section that allows service extension in the interest of national security.
