The Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Air Vice Marshal BR Mamman, on Monday, July 21, 2025, officially inaugurated participants of Course 02/2025 at the Centre’s headquarters in Oshodi, Lagos, charging them to embrace discipline, dedication, and personal development as they begin their six-month pre-retirement training.
In his inaugural address, AVM Mamman warmly welcomed the participants to what he described as the “Citadel of Hope and Courage,” commending them on their nomination for the highly coveted course. He emphasized that the programme is designed to equip personnel with practical knowledge and entrepreneurial skills essential for a successful transition into civilian life.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre consistently provides quality training, engages in research and development, and renders consultancy services geared towards adequately preparing our participants to face the challenges of reintegration,” the Commandant said.
He disclosed that the course will cover diverse areas including entrepreneurship, general management, health and retirement planning, financial management, ICT, and security and safety practices. According to him, many graduates of the Centre have since become thriving business owners and employers of labour, contributing to national development across the country.
AVM Mamman urged the participants to take full advantage of the opportunity presented by the training, stressing the importance of punctuality, discipline, and mutual respect. “This is your chance to develop expertise in your desired field at no cost to you. You must remain committed, punctual, and respectful to instructors and fellow participants,” he said.
The Commandant also underscored the importance of physical and mental well-being during the course, warning against the concealment of health issues and self-medication. He encouraged participants to make use of the Centre’s Medical and Counseling Departments for any health or psychological concerns.
Spiritual welfare was also highlighted, with AVM Mamman urging participants to utilize the religious facilities and engage with the chaplains and imam for guidance and support. He noted that representatives from the Military Pensions Board and the Services will be invited to clarify issues related to retirement benefits.
On discipline, the Commandant reiterated that the Armed Forces Act and all Standing Orders remain in force throughout the course. He warned that any acts of misconduct, indiscipline, or prolonged unauthorized absence will attract sanctions, including withholding of course certificates. He also reminded participants of the Defence Headquarters’ directive on the responsible use of social media.
In his welcome address, the Director of Training (DOT) at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Brig Gen Olatunji described the ceremony as a significant milestone marking the official start of the course programme, which is designed to prepare military personnel for a seamless transition into civilian life after decades of meritorious service.
A total of 628 participants were initially posted to the Centre for the course—comprising 401 from the Nigerian Army (NA), 105 from the Nigerian Navy (NN), and 122 from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). However, only 612 participants have been duly received, documented, accommodated, and medically screened, with 16 yet to report as of the inauguration date. About 30 participants were declared medically unfit during screening and are to be returned to their units for continued treatment closer to their families.
“The Centre will maintain close contact with the RTU participants for documentation and biometric capture prior to graduation alongside their medically fit colleagues,” the DOT noted.
Brig Gen Olatunji reiterated that NAFRC is a world-class training institution equipped with qualified professionals and modern facilities to empower service members through entrepreneurship and management training. He urged the participants to make the most of the opportunity, reminding them that the course is not only about skill acquisition but also character development.
“You are expected to be found worthy in character and learning before you are issued a certificate from this noble institution. We expect you to be good ambassadors of your respective Services,” he stated.
Participants had earlier undergone workshop selection processes and tours of the Centre’s workshops and recreational facilities. The DOT encouraged them to be disciplined, dedicated, and take ownership of their learning journey.
He emphasized that the course is fully residential, with all participants accommodated within the Centre. He also cautioned against unauthorized absences, warning that infractions would be treated seriously.
Acknowledging the challenges of Lagos as a cosmopolitan city, Brig Gen Olatunji reassured the participants of their safety within the Centre, urging them to remain within the cantonment for security reasons. He also reminded them to report health concerns promptly, assuring them of access to medical care, sporting facilities, and social clubs such as the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess and the Soldiers’ Club.
“As we welcome and congratulate you, be reminded that success is at the end and not at the beginning. It is my prayer that all of you who start Course 2/2025 will finish successfully,” he said.
He expressed the commitment of the Directorate of Training to the success of all participants, wishing them productive learning and a rewarding post-service future.
In closing, AVM Mamman congratulated the participants and encouraged them to report any challenges they may encounter through appropriate channels such as their course seniors, supervisors, or spiritual leaders. He reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to providing a clean, secure, and conducive learning environment.
He then proceeded with the formal inauguration:
“By the powers conferred on me by the Governing Council of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, as the Commandant, I, Air Vice Marshal BR Mamman, hereby formally inaugurate you singly and collectively as Participants of NAFRC Course 02/2025. I wish you the best on the course. Congratulations and God bless.”
The event marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the participants as they prepare to conclude their distinguished careers and embrace life beyond military service.