Nigerian Army Launches New Welfare Initiatives for Retiring Soldiers
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has announced the reorganization of existing welfare schemes and the introduction of fresh initiatives targeted at preparing soldiers for life after service.
This a renewed effort to enhance the well-being of personnel transitioning out of active service.
This was revealed during the Third Quarter Year 2025 Veteran Affairs Pre-Retirement Training/Business Development Seminar held at the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Accounts (NASFA), Arakan Cantonment, Apapa, Lagos.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya.
According to the statement, Lt. Gen. Oluyede, who was represented by the Commander Corps of Engineers, Major General Thanks Numbere, said the welfare reforms are driven by his “Soldier First” philosophy, which aims to prioritize the holistic needs of personnel both during and after their time in uniform.
“The Nigerian Army is not only focused on building a combat-ready force but also committed to equipping its personnel with the knowledge and resilience needed to thrive beyond the barracks,” the statement quoted the COAS as saying.
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The seminar, themed “Building Resilience of Personnel/Veterans for Thriving in Post-Retirement Life,” is a strategic part of the Army’s long-term welfare plan. It is designed to provide officers nearing retirement with business development tools and mindset training to help them transition smoothly into civilian life.
In his remarks, the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General LA Fejokwu, represented by the Deputy Chief of Administration (Veterans Affairs Directorate), Major General Tamunobere Opuene, stated that the seminar reflects the Army’s proactive approach to veteran support. He emphasized that preparing soldiers for post-service life is as important as their battlefield readiness.
Also quoted in the statement, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, described the seminar as a timely and impactful intervention. He encouraged participants to make the most of the sessions and use the knowledge gained to contribute meaningfully to society.
The opening day of the week-long seminar featured presentations from expert facilitators, as well as souvenir presentations and group photograph sessions.
Lt. Col. Yahaya noted that the event underscores the Nigerian Army’s growing emphasis on long-term soldier welfare, signaling a shift from conventional military preparedness to full-spectrum support for personnel throughout their service life and beyond.
By PRNigeria
