Former Nigerian military president Ibrahim Babangida has called for better welfare support for Nigerian military veterans and the families of fallen soldiers.
Babangida made the appeal when the National Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Morenike Henry, led members of the Legion’s leadership on a courtesy visit to his residence in Minna, Niger State.
According to a statement issued by the Legion’s Media Officer, Oloriegbe David, Babangida acknowledged the concerns raised by the delegation and pledged to reach out to relevant authorities to explore ways of addressing the welfare challenges affecting veterans.
The former military leader also commended the leadership of the Nigerian Legion for its continued efforts in promoting the welfare and recognition of retired military personnel.
He noted that the sacrifices made by veterans in defending the nation should not be overlooked and called for better government attention to their needs.
Earlier, Henry highlighted several challenges facing veterans, including inadequate medical support, limited healthcare funding, and economic hardship experienced by widows of soldiers who died in active service.
She appealed for financial assistance equivalent to five to six months’ salary for widows to help them start small businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Read also:
- Soldier injured as Gunmen ambush Nigerian Army responding to communal clash in Cross River
- Police arrest 2 suspects over kidnap of four-year-old in Adamawa
- Reps propose jail term for politicians with dual party membership
Henry also pointed out that many soldiers enlist at a young age and often face limited support systems after retirement or after losing their lives in service.
She further advocated the establishment of a Ministry of Veterans Affairs to provide a more structured and sustainable support system for retired military personnel.
In a separate engagement, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Emmanuel Undiandeye, urged the leadership of the Nigerian Legion to avoid protests while pursuing their demands.
Undiandeye commended the proposal to establish a Ministry of Veterans Affairs and stressed the importance of transparency in the management and utilisation of funds.
He encouraged the Legion to focus on programmes that directly improve the welfare of veterans and emphasised that constructive dialogue with government authorities remains the most effective way to secure funding and policy support.
In response, the Legion chairman expressed appreciation to the defence intelligence chief for his support in facilitating the successful hosting of the Nigerian Legion Council meeting.
