The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare of retired military personnel, assuring veterans that the implementation of the recently approved salary increase and corresponding pension adjustments is being pursued through the appropriate statutory processes.
The assurance was given during a one-day strategic retreat convened by the DHQ with the leadership of various Military Veterans’ Associations at the Army Headquarters Command Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja.
Organised in collaboration with the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association of Nigeria (RANAO), the retreat served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration and renewed commitment to the welfare of retired personnel who devoted their careers to defending Nigeria.
Speaking at the event on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Operations, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, said the Defence Headquarters remains committed to maintaining open engagement with military veterans, describing dialogue as the most effective way to address issues affecting retired personnel.
He said veterans’ welfare remains one of the top priorities of the Defence Headquarters under the leadership of the CDS, adding that efforts are ongoing to ensure the implementation of the recently approved salary review and the accompanying pension adjustments.
The CDS also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued commitment to the welfare of members of the Nigeria military and urged veterans to remain patient while the necessary processes are concluded.
He encouraged retired personnel to continue upholding the values of discipline, loyalty and patriotism for which the Nigeria military is known, assuring them that the Defence Headquarters would continue to pursue improved healthcare services, prompt pension payments and enhanced welfare packages.
The retreat also highlighted the need for stronger cooperation among military veterans’ organisations and encouraged retired personnel to remain active contributors to national development by mentoring younger generations and supporting initiatives aimed at promoting national unity and security.
The Defence Headquarters described the engagement as part of its broader efforts to strengthen the bond between serving and retired personnel while ensuring that the sacrifices of military veterans continue to be recognised and rewarded.
