@Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Milestone
Happy 85th Birthday, General Tarfa.
Some lives are remembered not merely for the years they have lived, but for the honour with which they served their nation and the enduring legacy they leave behind.
Today, Major General Paul Chabri Tarfa (Rtd.) celebrates his 85th birthday a remarkable milestone in the life of one of Nigeria’s most distinguished soldiers, administrators, and statesmen.
For me, General Tarfa is much more than a respected national figure.He is the father of my childhood friend, Alvari Tarfa, and growing up around their family gave me the rare privilege of witnessing discipline, excellence, and patriotism at close range.
The Tarfa residence at Unguwan Sarki Kaduna (Academy House) which is the official residence of commandants of NDA and Deborah House,his private residence on Sokoto Road was like a second home to me.
His late wife, Mrs. Deborah Tarfa, bless her soul, welcomed me with the warmth and affection of a mother, making every visit memorable and every moment special. Even when the General was away on official assignments, the Tarfa home remained a place where friendship, kindness, and family values flourished.
Many mornings, I watched with admiration as General Tarfa smartly dressed departed for work in his official convoy, accompanied by his aides-de-camp and orderlies.
His dignity, confidence, and discipline inspired many of us long before we understood the weight of the offices he occupied. Those moments shaped our dreams and deepened our admiration for service, leadership, and patriotism.
General Tarfa’s military career remains a shining example of dedicated service.
He served as Military Administrator of the old Oyo State, Provost Marshal of the Nigerian Army, Director of Infantry at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, before rising to become the Commandant of the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy.
Every appointment reflected the immense confidence reposed in his professionalism, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to national service.
Long before those appointments, he answered the nation’s call during the Nigerian Civil War, serving with courage and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity at one of the country’s defining moments.
Like many officers of his generation, he placed duty above personal comfort in defence of the nation.
Retirement from the military did not end his service to the nation.
Rather, it marked the beginning of another chapter of selfless national service. As Chairman of the Customs Reform Committee, he led reforms that laid the foundation for many of the improvements witnessed in the Nigeria Customs Service today. i also think he served as chairman of the Nigeria Railways. He served with dignity.
His wealth of experience and integrity once again earned him national recognition.His appointment as Chairman of the North East Development Commission by his longtime friend and colleague, the late President Muhammadu Buhari, and his subsequent reappointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reflected the immense confidence successive administrations placed in his leadership and competence.
Such bipartisan confidence is reserved only for men whose records of service, integrity, and dedication speak for themselves.
Beyond the uniforms, appointments, and distinguished offices, General Tarfa is admired for his humility, simplicity, compassion, and exemplary character.
Those who have encountered him know him not only as an accomplished military officer but also as a gentleman whose quiet confidence, discipline, and respect for others have earned him admiration across generations.
He has served Nigeria with honour both as a soldier and as a public servant, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire younger generations.
The Nigerian Armed Forces remain stronger because of his invaluable contributions, while countless young officers and public servants continue to draw inspiration from his exemplary life.
His story reminds us that true greatness is never measured by rank alone.
It is measured by sacrifice, integrity, selfless service, and the positive impact one leaves on people and the nation.
As General Paul Chabri Tarfa marks this remarkable milestone, we join his family, friends, associates, and countless admirers in celebrating a life devoted to Nigeria.
We thank him for his sacrifices, his leadership, and his unwavering commitment to national service.
May Almighty God continue to bless him with sound health, strength, peace, and abundant grace.
May He grant him many more years of fulfilment, happiness, and good health as he continues to inspire generations with his remarkable life of honour and service.
Happy 85th Birthday, Major General Paul Chabri Tarfa (Rtd.).
Your service to Nigeria will always be remembered, and your legacy will continue to inspire generations yet unborn.
#IbrahimKaulaMohammed
