This advice was given by the former Chief of Defence, Gen. Alex Ogomudia, in Abuja, as the 1973 set of the Nigerian Military school marked its 50th anniversary.
Ogomudia added that after service, they would be left with their families.
Ogomudia further advised ex-servicemen to make their health a priority and engage in exercise regularly.
He said, “I will also advise those still in service to look after their families. You must manage your family well. Because at the end of the day, that is all that would be left for you. You should look out for them sufficiently well for them to be there for you when you retire.
“Also, I want to advise you all to pay attention to your health. At this stage, your health is important. Engage in exercise regularly otherwise, you will be on your way home. What you eat is critical. You can no longer eat the way you want to eat. Also, watch what you drink. Also, retirement is not the end of life. It should be the beginning of another. ”
While speaking, the President of the Nigerian Military School Ex-Boys Association and former Chief of Defence Intelligence, Rear Admiral Gabriel Okoi, said the event presented an avenue for the ex-boys to reflect on their journey.
He said, “This Golden Jubilee Anniversary is a testament to the unwavering spirit, commitment and dedication of all Elites.
“It is also an honour and privilege to stand before you all as the Chairman of September 1973 Set (The Elites) on this special day of our lives. We are here to
celebrate our Golden Jubilee as an Alumnus of the famous Nigerian Military School, Zaria.
“As we reflect on the journey thus far, we are reminded of the foundation on which our association was built. It was built on love, care, concern, and a shared vision of creating an avenue where we could all come together find solace, and support one another in our various endeavours.
“Our set stands out academically, militarily, and in civilian careers. We set a WAEC result record of 100%, a record that has not been broken to date.
“In the military, we produced 32 Generals including a CDS and directors in other civil organisations. This could not have been achieved without the dedication and support of our teachers and instructors, some of whom are here today,” Okoi said.
