Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has unveiled plans to establish dedicated hospitals for military veterans across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and introduce a low-interest loan scheme to support their post-service businesses.
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 was part of his ongoing nationwide consultations with veterans aimed at addressing their welfare concerns and strengthening their contributions to national security.Compare Security
The CDS reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving veterans’ welfare, noting that the recent salary increment for serving military personnel and the consequential adjustment of veterans’ pensions reflected government’s appreciation of their sacrifices.
He added that issues arising from the pension adjustment were being addressed.
On healthcare, Oluyede disclosed that Defence Headquarters was working towards dedicating at least one hospital in each of the six geopolitical zones to cater specifically for veterans’ medical needs.
According to him, data collation is ongoing, while necessary processes for actualising the initiative are at advanced stages.
He also revealed plans to establish a low-interest loan scheme to enable retired military personnel to invest in productive ventures and businesses after leaving service.
The CDS further highlighted the Defence Headquarters Online Shop, launched in collaboration with Konga, explaining that efforts were underway to bring more major businesses on board to provide discounted goods and services to serving personnel and veterans.
Oluyede urged the veterans to remain actively involved in promoting peace and security within their communities, while continuing to support serving personnel with prayers.
During the interactive session, the veterans raised concerns bordering on entitlements, welfare programmes and administrative issues, which were addressed by the CDS and other senior military officials.
Those present to provide further clarification included the Chief of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim; Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, Air Vice Marshal NI Iloh; and Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, Major General JE Osifoh.Buy Maps
In his remarks, the President of the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association (RANAO), Major General HA Salihu (rtd), commended the CDS for the engagement and encouraged veterans to embrace dialogue in resolving issues affecting them.
Similarly, Major General AG Adewuyi (rtd), who delivered the vote of thanks, praised Oluyede for his continued attention to veterans’ welfare and routine engagements with retired military personnel.
He also appreciated the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mamuda, for the hospitality extended to the veterans.Buy Maps
The Defence Headquarters said the engagement formed part of efforts to strengthen the relationship between the military leadership and retired personnel while ensuring that their welfare concerns receive sustained attention.
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