Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has held a one-day strategic retreat with the leadership of various military veterans’ associations as part of efforts to strengthen the welfare of retired personnel and promote unity and national service.
The retreat, held at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1 in Asokoro, Abuja, was organised in collaboration with the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association of Nigeria (RANAO).
According to a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the meeting provided a platform for dialogue, collaboration and renewed commitment to the welfare of retired military personnel.
Speaking at the retreat, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, represented by the Chief of Defence Operations, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, reaffirmed the Defence Headquarters’ commitment to maintaining regular engagement with military veterans.
He said dialogue remains the most effective means of addressing concerns affecting retired personnel and stressed that veterans’ welfare remains one of the Defence Headquarters’ top priorities.
The CDS disclosed that efforts were ongoing to ensure the implementation of the recently approved salary increase and the corresponding pension adjustments through the appropriate statutory processes.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the welfare of members of the Armed Forces and urged veterans to remain patient while continuing to uphold the values of discipline, loyalty and patriotism.
General Oluyede assured the retired personnel that the Defence Headquarters would continue to pursue improved healthcare, prompt pension payments and enhanced welfare packages for veterans.
The retreat also highlighted the need for stronger cooperation among veterans’ organisations and encouraged retired military personnel to remain active contributors to national development by mentoring younger generations and supporting initiatives that promote national unity and security.