By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has announced plans to establish dedicated hospitals for military veterans across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and introduce a low-interest loan scheme to support their healthcare needs and economic empowerment after retirement.
Oluyede disclosed this on Friday, October 23, 2026, during an interactive session with veterans from the Southwest region at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, as part of his ongoing nationwide engagement with retired military personnel.
According to an official statement signed by the Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the CDS said the proposed hospitals would cater specifically to the medical needs of veterans, complementing existing healthcare arrangements.
He disclosed that data collation was ongoing, while the necessary processes were at advanced stages towards actualising the initiative.
The defence chief also revealed that the Defence Headquarters was working to establish a low-interest loan scheme to enable retired military personnel to invest in businesses and other productive ventures after leaving service.
Oluyede said the initiatives formed part of broader efforts to improve the welfare of serving personnel and veterans in recognition of their sacrifices and contributions to national security.
He also cited the recent salary increment for serving military personnel and the consequential adjustment of veterans’ pensions as evidence of the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of members of the Armed Forces.
According to him, issues arising from the consequential pension adjustment were being addressed.
The CDS further highlighted the Defence Headquarters Online Shop, launched in collaboration with Konga, explaining that efforts were ongoing to expand the initiative by bringing more major businesses on board to provide discounted goods and services to serving personnel and veterans.
He assured the retired military personnel that their sacrifices towards preserving Nigeria’s unity and peace would not be forgotten.
“Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by the nation,” Oluyede said.
He urged the veterans to remain actively involved in promoting peace and security in their respective communities and to continue supporting serving troops with prayers as they carry out their duties.
During the interactive session, the veterans raised concerns and sought clarifications on issues relating to their entitlements, welfare programmes and administrative matters.
The CDS and other senior military officials addressed the concerns, with further clarifications provided by the Chief of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim; the Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, Air Vice Marshal NI Iloh; and the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, Major General JE Osifoh.
In his remarks, 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 continue embracing dialogue in resolving issues affecting them.
Similarly, Major General AG Adewuyi (rtd), who delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the veterans, commended Oluyede for his continued attention to their welfare and commitment to regular engagements that allow retired personnel to communicate their concerns directly to military leadership.
Adewuyi also appreciated the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mamuda, for the hospitality extended to the veterans during the meeting.
