The Defence Headquarters has organized the inaugural Armed Forces of Nigeria Veterans Stakeholders Forum with the theme “The Nigerian Armed Forces Veterans in the Next Decade.”
The event, held at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai Auditorium in the Army War College Nigeria, Asokoro, Abuja, spans two days from June 25 to June 26, 2024, and aims to enhance the welfare and future prospects of Nigerian military veterans.
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), represented by Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shettima, Director of Plans Defence Headquarters, delivered the keynote address.
In his speech, the CDS emphasized the importance of recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of veterans, and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve their welfare.
He noted recent achievements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, including the disbursement of the Security Debarment Allowance, a 20% increase in pension rates, and the inclusion of veterans in federal palliative programs.
“Your presence here today underscores our collective dedication to the well-being of our veterans,”General Musa stated, acknowledging the forum’s role in advancing veteran welfare.
He also mentioned various scholarship and educational programs for orphans, pre- and post-retirement programs, and medical interventions as part of these efforts.
Furthermore, the CDS highlighted the establishment of a committee tasked with developing a long-term strategic roadmap for veteran administration, informed by studies conducted in the UK and planned visits to Egypt and the USA for further insights.
The forum addresses critical issues including governance in veteran administration, health and well-being, skills development, post-service employment, legal matters, and the protection and security of veterans.
General Musa urged participants to engage in objective and professional deliberations, assuring them that the forum’s outcomes would guide future improvements in veteran administration.
Over the two days, the forum will feature a series of lectures on vital topics such as “Evolving the Vibrant Governance Structure for Veteran Administration,” “Issues and Challenges in Healthcare,” and “The Well-being of Veterans.”
These lectures aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current challenges and potential solutions in veteran administration, focusing on enhancing governance, improving healthcare services, and ensuring the overall well-being of veterans.
The Director of Veteran Affairs Defence Headquarters, Major General DI Salihu, who also serves as the Chairman Organizing Committee, expressed gratitude to the Special Guest of Honour for his presence.
General Salihu highlighted the forum’s significance in addressing veteran issues and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to implement the outcomes of the discussions.
He presented a souvenir to the SGOH as a token of appreciation, underscoring the forum’s role in fostering cooperation and tangible progress in veteran welfare initiatives.
This forum represents a significant step towards ensuring the well-being and recognition of Nigerian military veterans, aligning with the Armed Forces’ commitment to nurturing a professional and people-centric military.
LV