The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to the welfare, well-being, and continued support of military veterans in recognition of their sacrifices in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
The assurance was given by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during a meeting with a delegation of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion led by its Chairman, Ms. Grace Morenike Henry, in Abuja.
Akume said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to improving the welfare of military veterans who served the nation with courage, patriotism, and distinction.
He noted that both serving and retired military personnel have made significant contributions to the peace, stability, and development of Nigeria and deserve continued recognition and support.
The SGF assured the delegation that concerns raised by the Nigerian Legion would receive careful consideration in consultation with relevant government agencies, stressing that the Renewed Hope Agenda prioritises policies that promote the welfare of those who have served the nation honourably.
Speaking during the meeting, the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, called for a review of existing legislation governing the Nigerian Legion to reflect current realities and the growing number of retired military personnel.
He emphasized the need for continued collaboration between the Federal Government and the Nigerian Legion to strengthen support for veterans, assist the families of fallen heroes, and preserve the legacy of those who sacrificed for the country.
Kana also highlighted the historical evolution of the Nigerian Legion, noting that it was initially established to cater for veterans of the Second World War before its mandate was expanded in 1977 to include veterans of the Nigerian Civil War and other military operations.
Earlier, the Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, Ms. Grace Morenike Henry, advocated a review and modernization of the Nigerian Legion Act to align it with present-day realities and strengthen the organisation’s role in veterans’ affairs.
She also called for the establishment of a dedicated Federal Ministry of Veterans Affairs to coordinate policies relating to veterans’ welfare, pensions, healthcare, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
According to her, such a ministry would improve service delivery to retired military personnel and align Nigeria with international best practices adopted in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom.
