The Federal government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare, well-being, and continued support of military veterans across the country.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume gave the assurance when he received a delegation of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, led by Ms. Grace Morenike Henry, the Chairman of the council, in Abuja.
During the visit, Ms. Grace Morenike Henry advocated the establishment of a dedicated Federal Ministry of Veterans Affairs to coordinate policies relating to veterans’ welfare, pensions, healthcare, rehabilitation, and reintegration, in line with practices in the United States and the United Kingdom.
She also appealed to the Federal Government to support legislative amendments to review and modernize the outdated 1977 Nigerian Legion Act.
Responding, Sen. George Akume emphasized that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains deeply committed to improving the lives of retired personnel who served the nation with courage, patriotism, and distinction.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is proud of the Nigerian military, both serving and retired. Their sacrifices have laid the foundation for the peace and stability we enjoy today. As a government, we remain committed to ensuring that our veterans are treated with dignity, respect, and the care they deserve,” Akume said.
He assured the council that the issues raised, including the legislative review, would receive careful consideration in consultation with relevant government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Earlier in his remarks, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, the Permanent Secretary of the General Services Office, noted that present-day realities require a fresh assessment of the veteran laws, as the number of retired military personnel has grown significantly over the years.
The Permanent Secretary described the veterans as a critical national asset and stressed the need for continued collaboration between the Federal Government and the Nigerian Legion to support the families of fallen heroes and preserve their legacies.