The 82 Division Nigerian Army successfully hosted its 3-Day Officers’ Study Period II, themed “Empowering the Nigerian Army Personnel: Building Skills for Socio-Economic Resilience and Service Transition”.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 82 Division Nigerian Army said the programme was organised in collaboration with the Nwanna Arinze Foundation.
In his opening address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division Nigerian Army, Major General O.A. Fadairo, warmly welcomed dignitaries and participants. He emphasized the importance of preparing officers for life beyond active military service, noting that while the transition from a structured military livelihood to civilian socio-economic life may present challenges, discipline, continuous learning, and the acquisition of valuable skills remain essential for sustaining livelihoods.
Reflecting on the Division’s remarkable successes during the first edition of the study period, Major General Fadairo stressed that learning is a continuous process vital for capacity building and development. He explained that socio-economic resilience is a critical attribute for every Nigerian Army personnel, equipping them with the skills required to thrive in an evolving economic environment.
The GOC underscored that active military service is only a phase in the broader journey of life, and a time will inevitably come when personnel must bow out. He highlighted the importance of being prepared for that transition by acquiring skills in financial management, agriculture, vocational enterprises, and other productive ventures, all of which provide avenues for economic independence and sustainable livelihoods. He encouraged officers to embrace the study period as an opportunity to broaden their understanding, strengthen the culture of continuous learning, and enhance career planning for life after service.
The facilitator of the event, Honourable Nwanna Arinze, Director General of the Nwanna Arinze Foundation, appreciated Major General Fadairo for his support and partnership. He noted that their collaboration continues to create opportunities for meaningful impact.
Speaking further, Dr. Anieze expressed optimism about greater partnerships with the Nigerian Army in initiatives such as school outreaches and medical outreaches. He commended Major General Fadairo as a leader with a heart for humanity, praising his choice of programmes that positively impact lives. In recognition of his humanitarian disposition, the foundation presented a humanitarian award to the GOC.
The closing ceremony, held on 13 August 2026, featured the Special Guest of Honour, Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Oniya. In his remarks, he appreciated Major General Fadairo and the Nigerian Army for their continuous partnership with the Nwanna Arinze Foundation and the Enugu State Government. He acknowledged that retirement from a well-structured life is not an easy task, encouraging tolerance, discipline, and self-love as strategies for smooth transformation.
Prof Oniya further thanked the GOC and the entire personnel of the Division for partnering with Enugu State in its quest to become the most secure state in Nigeria.
The highlight of the training included the presentation of souvenirs to guests and certificates to participants.
