By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has announced plans to establish dedicated military hospitals for retired military personnel in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to improve access to healthcare and address the medical needs of veterans.
Oluyede disclosed this on Friday, November 13, 2026, during an interactive engagement with military veterans from the South-South geopolitical zone at Cathelea Convention and Suites, Benin City, Edo State.
According to an official statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the CDS said the initiative was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen veterans’ welfare and ensure that retired personnel continue to receive adequate care in appreciation of their service and sacrifices to the nation.
He also disclosed plans to expand the military hospital in Abuja, with a percentage of its facilities reserved for veterans, as part of measures to improve their access to quality medical services.
On economic empowerment, the Defence Chief announced plans to facilitate low-interest loans through the Bank of Industry to enable retired military personnel to establish and expand businesses after leaving active service.
Oluyede explained that the engagement was designed to provide an avenue for direct interaction with retired personnel on issues affecting their welfare, administration and post-service needs.
He described the forum as an opportunity to strengthen synergy between the Armed Forces and veterans, noting that the experience and professional expertise of retired military personnel remained valuable to national defence and security.
The CDS also briefed the veterans on ongoing efforts to acquire modern military platforms and force enablers, some of which have started arriving in the country and are expected to enhance the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.
During the interactive session, the veterans raised concerns bordering on gratuity computation, pension-related matters and access to medical care, among other issues, which the CDS promptly addressed.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association (RANAO), Colonel Tony Ogbomo (Rtd), commended the CDS for his commitment to improving the welfare of retired military personnel and their families.
Ogbomo particularly welcomed the proposed establishment of dedicated military hospitals across the six geopolitical zones and the planned low-interest loan scheme, describing them as important interventions to support veterans in their post-service lives.
The CDS urged the veterans to remain worthy ambassadors of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in their respective communities.
The engagement forms part of a nationwide initiative by Oluyede to strengthen veterans’ welfare and harness their experience towards national defence and security. Similar meetings have been held with veterans from the South-West and North-Central geopolitical zones, with further engagements expected across the country.
