Oluyede reaffirms commitment to veterans’ welfare, promises improved healthcare, business support and resolution of pension concerns
By Chioma Vivian James
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government to improving the welfare of retired military personnel, announcing plans to dedicate at least one hospital in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to cater specifically to veterans’ medical needs.
Oluyede gave the assurance 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.
The engagement formed part of his ongoing nationwide consultations with retired personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, aimed at addressing their concerns and strengthening support for those who served the country.
The CDS described the welfare of veterans as a priority, acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions to national unity, peace and security.
“Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by the nation,” he said.
On healthcare, Oluyede disclosed that the Defence Headquarters was working towards dedicating at least one hospital in each geopolitical zone to provide specialised attention to veterans, alongside existing medical arrangements.
He said data collection was ongoing, while the necessary processes for implementing the initiative were at advanced stages.
The CDS also highlighted recent improvements in military remuneration, including the salary increment for serving personnel and the corresponding adjustment of veterans’ pensions. He noted that concerns arising from the pension adjustments were being addressed.
Beyond healthcare and pensions, Oluyede revealed plans to introduce a low-interest loan scheme to help retired military personnel establish businesses and pursue other productive economic activities after leaving service.
He explained that the initiative was intended to support veterans’ financial independence and ease their transition into civilian life.
The CDS further highlighted the Defence Headquarters Online Shop, launched in collaboration with Konga, as another welfare initiative designed to provide access to affordable goods and services.
According to him, efforts were underway to expand the platform by bringing more major businesses on board, thereby extending discounted offers to serving military personnel and veterans.
Oluyede urged retired personnel to remain actively involved in promoting peace and security in their communities. He also encouraged them to continue supporting serving military personnel through prayers and other constructive contributions to national security.
During the interactive session, the veterans raised concerns and sought clarification on their welfare, entitlements, pensions and other administrative matters.
The CDS responded to their questions, while senior military officials provided further explanations on issues within their respective areas of responsibility.
Those present to provide additional clarifications included 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.
The discussions provided an opportunity for the veterans to engage directly with military leadership on challenges affecting their welfare and access to existing support programmes.
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 organising the engagement and encouraged veterans to continue embracing dialogue as a constructive means of resolving issues.
Similarly, Major General AG Adewuyi (rtd), who delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the veterans, commended Oluyede for his sustained attention to their welfare and commitment to regular consultations with retired personnel.
Adewuyi also expressed appreciation to the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General Auwalu Mamuda, for the hospitality extended to the visiting veterans.
The engagement underscored the Defence Headquarters’ commitment to strengthening communication with retired military personnel while pursuing measures to improve their healthcare, financial security and overall welfare.
