The Nigerian Army is reportedly facing a significant manpower shortage due to a high number of voluntary retirements, with the Mechanical Engineering Corps particularly affected.
Recent data shows over 1,008 soldiers have resigned in the past four years, including 196 in August 2024 alone.
In a memo dated October 16, 2024, the Mechanical Engineering Corps expressed concern over the exodus, instructing commanding officers to contact discharged soldiers interested in returning.
Lt Col A. Muhammed, who signed the memo sighted by The PUNCH, emphasized the importance of experienced technical manpower for effective equipment support.
It partly read: “The deployment of technical manpower is essential for effective and efficient equipment support in the field which is based on trades/expertise of technicians. NAEME is currently experiencing an acute shortage of manpower.
“The dearth of manpower in the Corps is further compounded by the large number of voluntarily discharged soldiers in recent years. Consequently, I am directed to request Comds/COs to reach out to discharged skilled soldiers in their AOR who are willing to be re-engaged to the NA on a contract basis.
“I am to add that names of discharged personnel willing to be re-engaged should be forwarded to this Headquarters NLT 19 Oct 24 using the attached proforma. Grateful to treat and acknowledge.”
Retired Brig Gen Bashir Adewinbi supported the initiative, stating that retired officers returning to service is common in many nations, though he highlighted the importance of recruiting individuals genuinely committed to military service.
He noted that while the military offers numerous benefits, commitment is essential to retaining personnel.
He told The PUNCH, “It is not unusual for retired Army officers to come back and participate in the security architecture of a nation. This practice is common in other advanced countries.
