Nigeria’s military veterans may be getting long-overdue attention as a former Head of State moves to push their concerns to the top.
Former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, has pledged to engage the Federal Government on critical issues affecting military veterans, promising to push for improved welfare and institutional reforms.
The assurance came after a meeting with the leadership of the Nigerian Legion, led by its National Chairman, Morenike Henry, who briefed him on challenges facing ex-servicemen.
Abubakar admitted that veterans’ issues have been neglected and vowed to meet with the Minister of Defence and Chief of Defence Staff to address key concerns, especially around welfare and support systems.
He also called for greater financial independence for the legion, encouraging retirees to contribute to its sustainability.
Earlier, Henry highlighted ongoing reforms within the legion, including restructuring along Army, Navy, and Air Force lines, upgrading its Abuja headquarters, and seeking partnerships to develop its assets.
She, however, flagged major challenges—ranging from poor healthcare access to housing difficulties due to inadequate pensions—and pushed for deeper reforms, including the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Veterans Affairs.
In a related show of support, former lawmaker Tunde Akogun praised Henry’s leadership as the first female head of the legion, while his wife also pledged collaboration on initiatives supporting military families.
The engagement is part of broader efforts to reposition the legion and improve the lives of over 10,000 veterans nationwide.
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