The Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), in collaboration with the EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, has graduated 30 military officers from its quarterly Senior and Mid-Level Entrepreneurship and Management Training Course (14/2025), held at the Centre’s Resource Complex in Oshodi.
The graduation ceremony, Chaired by the Chairman Empretec Nigeria Foundation, H.E. Donald Duke—marked the culmination of a six-week intensive training aimed at equipping participants with entrepreneurial, vocational, and leadership skills needed for life during and after military service.
In his keynote address, Duke lauded the efforts of the Commandant and the training team, emphasizing that the course has empowered the officers with essential tools for innovation, business development, and community impact.
“As ‘Empretecos,’ I urge you to embrace innovation, effective management, and social responsibility. The entrepreneurial mindset you’ve developed here will drive positive change in our society,” he said.
Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Rimi Mamman, praised the graduating officers for their dedication and described the training as a strategic initiative to boost productivity, self-reliance, and post-service reintegration. He stated that the curriculum had been reviewed to meet the high standards expected of senior officers, with a focus on agriculture as demonstrated by the participants’ visit to Songhai Farms in Benin Republic.
“You have been empowered to shape the future, turn visions into realities, and contribute to national development. Leadership is not just about authority—it is about empowering others,” AVM Mamman charged the officers.
He also announced that the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) will visit the Centre in June to facilitate business registration for the new graduates, encouraging them to formalize their ventures.
Donald Duke commended the initiative, calling it a transformational platform for military personnel. He noted the importance of preparing officers—many of whom joined the military at a young age—for successful transitions into civilian life.
Director of Training, Brigadier General IO Olatunji, revealed that 30 participants—comprising 13 mid-level officers, 13 senior officers, and four NAFRC personnel—successfully completed the course out of the 85 expected. He acknowledged their exceptional discipline and coordination throughout the training.
The event featured the formal conferment of graduation by AVM Mamman, along with certificate presentations and awards for outstanding performance.
The programme reinforces NAFRC’s commitment to preparing Nigerian military officers for entrepreneurial success and sustainable livelihoods beyond active service.