The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare of retired military personnel, pledging sustained engagement with veterans as part of efforts to strengthen unity, enhance welfare and promote continued national service.
The assurance was given during a one-day strategic retreat convened by the Defence Headquarters under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, in collaboration with the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association of Nigeria (RANAO).
The retreat, held at the Army Headquarters Command Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja, brought together the leadership of various military veterans’ associations to discuss issues affecting retired personnel and explore ways of enhancing collaboration and support.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Defence Staff, represented by the Chief of Defence Operations, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, said continuous dialogue with veterans remains the most effective means of addressing their concerns and strengthening the relationship between serving and retired members of the Armed Forces.
He stated that the welfare of military veterans remains a top priority for the Defence Headquarters under the leadership of General Oluyede, assuring participants that efforts were underway to implement the recently approved salary increase for serving personnel and the corresponding pension adjustments through the appropriate statutory processes.
The CDS also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to improving the welfare of members of the Armed Forces, noting that the administration had continued to demonstrate support for both serving and retired military personnel.
He urged veterans to remain patient as government works through the necessary processes, while encouraging them to continue upholding the values of discipline, loyalty and patriotism that define the Nigerian military.
General Abdussalam further assured the retired officers that the Defence Headquarters would continue to pursue improved healthcare services, timely payment of pensions and enhanced welfare packages for veterans.
The retreat also emphasised the need for stronger cooperation among military veterans’ associations and encouraged retired personnel to remain active contributors to national development by mentoring younger generations and supporting initiatives aimed at promoting national unity, peace and security.
The meeting formed part of the Defence Headquarters’ broader efforts to strengthen engagement with veterans and recognise their continued role in advancing Nigeria’s security and nation-building objectives.
