Goodness Anenih
Military personnel have been encouraged to acquire professional certifications and academic qualifications before retirement to improve their chances of securing meaningful employment and adapting successfully to civilian life.
Stakeholders in security and workforce development say that while military service equips personnel with discipline, leadership abilities and technical expertise, additional qualifications remain essential for translating those skills into opportunities in the civilian workforce.
They explained that many employers in the private sector rely heavily on recognised certifications, licences and academic credentials when assessing candidates, making it difficult for some veterans to fully leverage their military experience without equivalent civilian qualifications.
According to the experts, obtaining additional credentials while still in service allows military personnel to remain competitive in industries such as aviation, cybersecurity, engineering, logistics and project management.
They noted that the transition from military to civilian life can be challenging for retirees who have spent decades within a structured operational environment, stressing that continuous education helps prepare them for new professional realities.
The stakeholders further observed that veterans with recognised certifications are often better positioned to secure higher-paying jobs and maintain financial stability after leaving active duty.
They also pointed out that pursuing further education enhances confidence and gives retiring personnel a stronger sense of direction as they prepare for life beyond military service.
In addition, military institutions were urged to strengthen educational support programmes, expand partnerships with universities and professional bodies, and provide accessible training opportunities for personnel approaching retirement.
The experts maintained that investing in education and certification is not only beneficial to individual service members but also contributes to national development by enabling experienced veterans to continue contributing their expertise in civilian sectors.
They stressed that early preparation remains critical, noting that military personnel who begin acquiring qualifications years before retirement are more likely to experience a smoother and more successful transition into civilian careers.