The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has promised improved healthcare and access to low-interest loans for retired military personnel, while urging them to contribute to peace and security in their communities.
Oluyede spoke on Monday during a meeting with Southwest veterans at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan.
The engagement formed part of a nationwide tour to interact with retired servicemen and women and hear their welfare concerns.
Commending the veterans for their sacrifices in protecting Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty, the Defence Chief assured them that their service would not be forgotten.
He said the recent pay rise for serving military personnel had been followed by a corresponding pension review for retirees, adding that authorities were addressing outstanding issues arising from the adjustment.
On healthcare, Oluyede disclosed that at least one hospital in each of the country’s six geopolitical zones would be designated for veterans. He said preparations had reached an advanced stage, with data collection ongoing.
He also announced plans for a low-interest loan scheme to enable retirees to establish businesses and other income-generating ventures.
The Defence Chief highlighted an online shopping platform operated by Defence Headquarters in partnership with Konga, which he said provided discounted goods and services for serving and retired personnel. More major companies were being engaged to broaden the initiative, he added.
Oluyede encouraged the veterans to apply their experience to promoting peaceful and secure communities and continue supporting serving troops with prayers.
During the interactive session, participants raised questions about pensions, entitlements, welfare programmes and administrative matters, which the Defence Chief and other senior officers addressed.
Some retirees also thanked the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General Auwalu Mamuda, for the hospitality extended to them.
