The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has convened a one-day strategic retreat with the leadership of various military veterans’ associations to strengthen collaboration, improve the welfare of retired personnel and reinforce their continued contributions to national development.
According to an official statement signed by the Director, Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the retreat, held at the Army Headquarters Command Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja, was organised by the Defence Headquarters in collaboration with the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association of Nigeria (RANAO).
Speaking at the event, 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 open dialogue with military veterans, describing engagement as the most effective means of addressing issues affecting retired personnel.
He said the welfare of veterans remains one of the top priorities of the Defence Headquarters under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, adding that efforts are underway to implement the recently approved salary increase and the corresponding pension adjustments through the appropriate statutory processes.
General Oluyede also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, for his commitment to the welfare of members of the Armed Forces.
He urged military veterans to remain patient while the necessary processes are completed and encouraged them to continue upholding the values of discipline, loyalty and patriotism that define the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The CDS further assured the veterans that the Defence Headquarters would continue to pursue improved healthcare services, timely pension payments and enhanced welfare packages for retired military personnel.
The retreat also highlighted the need for stronger cooperation among veterans’ associations and encouraged retired personnel to remain active partners in nation-building by mentoring younger generations and supporting initiatives that promote national unity and security.
