The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has assured military veterans that their welfare remains a priority.
Oluyede gave the assurance in Yola, the Adamawa State capital, during an engagement with retired military personnel from the North-East.
The defence chief acknowledged the sacrifices made by veterans in the service of the nation, describing them as important partners in efforts to strengthen national security.
He said the engagement is aimed at tapping into the wealth of experience and knowledge of retired military personnel, particularly in intelligence gathering and other areas relevant to national security.
Oluyede disclosed that the Defence Headquarters is collaborating with the Bank of Industry (BOI) to provide retired military personnel with access to low-interest loans to enable them establish businesses and secure sustainable livelihoods after service.
He said the initiative is part of efforts to improve the welfare and economic well-being of veterans and ensure that they continue to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The engagement was opened by the Chief of Administration, Defence Headquarters, Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, who commended the veterans for their years of selfless service to the country.
Kachim also acknowledged the continued contributions of retired military personnel after leaving active service, assuring them of the commitment of the Defence Headquarters to their welfare and development.
Responding, the National President of the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers Association, retired Major General Abayomi Salihu, commended the chief of defence staff for organising the engagement.
Salihu described the meeting as timely, saying it provided an opportunity for veterans to interact with the military leadership and share their wealth of knowledge and experience.
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He said the association is satisfied with steps being taken by the chief of defence staff to address the concerns of retired personnel.
The retired general also clarified that those who participated in the recent protest by retired military personnel were not registered members of the association.
He expressed optimism that the welfare of veterans would receive appropriate attention under the current military leadership, stressing that retired personnel should not be left to suffer after years of service to the nation.
