CDS Oluyede promises better welfare for military veterans

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has promised improved welfare, dedicated healthcare facilities, and low-interest loans for retired military personnel.

Oluyede gave the assurance on Friday during an interactive session with veterans from the Southwest at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan.

The engagement was part of his nationwide consultations with veterans aimed at addressing their welfare concerns and strengthening their contributions to national security.

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The CDS commended the veterans for their sacrifices in preserving Nigeria’s unity and peace, assuring them that their service would not be forgotten.

“Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by the nation,” he said.

He said the Federal Government remained committed to improving veterans’ welfare, citing the recent salary increase for serving personnel and the consequential adjustment of veterans’ pensions.

Oluyede added that issues arising from the pension adjustment were being addressed.

He disclosed that the Defence Headquarters was working to dedicate at least one hospital in each geopolitical zone to meet veterans’ medical needs, noting that data collation was ongoing and preparations were at an advanced stage.

The CDS also revealed plans to establish a low-interest loan scheme to help retired personnel start businesses and engage in productive ventures after service.

On economic support, he highlighted the Defence Headquarters Online Shop, launched in partnership with Konga, saying efforts were underway to bring more major businesses on board to provide discounted goods and services to serving personnel and veterans.

He urged the veterans to support peace and security efforts in their communities and continue praying for serving personnel.

During the session, the veterans raised concerns about their entitlements, welfare programmes and administrative matters, which were addressed by the CDS, with further clarifications provided by relevant military officials.

Those present included the Chief of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim; Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, Air Vice Marshal NI Iloh; and Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, Major General JE Osifoh.

The President of the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association (RANAO), Major General HA Salihu (rtd), thanked the CDS for the engagement and encouraged veterans to embrace dialogue in resolving their concerns.

Similarly, Major General AG Adewuyi (rtd), who moved the vote of thanks on behalf of the veterans, praised Oluyede for his continued attention to veterans’ welfare and regular engagements with them.

Adewuyi also commended the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, for the hospitality extended to the veterans.