From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed his commitment to improving the welfare of military veterans in recognition of their exemplary service and sacrifices to the nation.
According to a statement issued in Abuja by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, General Oluyede gave the assurance on Friday, November 13, 2026, during an engagement meeting and interactive session with military veterans from the South-South geopolitical zone.
The meeting was held at Cathelea Convention and Suites in Benin City, Edo State.
The CDS explained that the engagement was part of his initiative to interact directly with retired military personnel on issues relating to their welfare, administration and other post-service concerns.
He described the forum as a valuable platform for strengthening synergy and promoting constructive interaction, enabling the Armed Forces to benefit from the wealth of experience and professional expertise of retired personnel in making informed decisions on veterans’ administration and welfare.
General Oluyede noted that the welfare of veterans and their families deserved continuous improvement, urging them to remain good ambassadors of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in their respective communities.
He also briefed the veterans on ongoing efforts to acquire modern military platforms and force enablers, some of which have already started arriving in the country and are expected to enhance military operations across Nigeria.
On welfare initiatives, the CDS disclosed plans to provide low-interest loans through the Bank of Industry to support veterans in establishing and developing businesses after retirement.
He also highlighted improvements in medical care, including the expansion of the military hospital in Abuja, with a percentage of its services reserved for veterans, as well as ongoing efforts to establish dedicated medical facilities in each geopolitical zone to address their healthcare needs.
The interactive session provided an opportunity for the veterans to raise concerns relating to gratuity computation, pension matters and access to medical care, among other issues, which the CDS promptly addressed.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association (RANAO), Colonel Tony Ogbomo (Rtd.), expressed appreciation to the CDS for his sustained commitment to the welfare of military veterans and their families.
He particularly commended the CDS for the proposed establishment of at least one dedicated military hospital for veterans in each geopolitical zone, as well as the planned introduction of a low-interest loan scheme to support veterans in establishing and expanding their post-service businesses.
The engagement underscores the CDS’s commitment to strengthening veterans’ welfare and harnessing the experience of retired military personnel to enhance national defence and security.
It will be recalled that General Oluyede recently held similar engagements with veterans from the South-West and North-Central geopolitical zones. The engagements are expected to continue across the country.
