The Nigerian Army is facing a significant manpower shortage due to a high number of voluntary retirements, particularly affecting the Mechanical Engineering Corps.
Recent data reveals that 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.
Signed by Lt Col A. Muhammed, the memo emphasized the importance of experienced technical manpower for effective equipment support.
“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.”
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.
