Ministry of Defences says 2,141 Civil War veterans who retired before qualifying for pension have been enrolled by the Ministry of Defence in recognition of their service to the nation.
Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar disclosed this at a news conference in Abuja to formally kicked off the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day with the theme “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes.”
Acknowledging the sacrifice of the military in national unity, the Minister said personnel welfare remains central to the government’s “Soldier First” initiative as ₦18 billion has been paid in Group Life Insurance benefits to the beneficiaries as Debarment Allowance was introduced to promote veterans’ dignity.
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The Defence Minister also used the occasion to commend the courage and professionalism of Nigerian troops across all theatres of operation, noting that significant gains have so far been recorded in the fight against insecurity.
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He however, announced the development of a new strategic initiative titled “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme” which is aimed at engaging retired military veterans in restoring security as well as driving economic revitalisation in previously insurgent-occupied communities.