The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) to improving veterans’ welfare through skills acquisition and sustainable empowerment initiatives.
This is contained in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, by the Director, Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Una.
Oluyede gave the assurance at the opening of the 2026 Skills Acquisition Training for Veterans in the South-West geopolitical zone, held at the Headquarters, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan.
The programme, organised by the DHQ Veterans Affairs Division, was designed to equip veterans with practical skills for economic independence and improved livelihoods.
Represented by the Director, Veterans Affairs Directorate, DHQ, Maj.-Gen. Oluwafemi Williams, the CDS said veterans’ welfare remained a priority of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
He urged participants to maximise the opportunity by translating the skills acquired into productive ventures that would support their families and contribute to national development.
According to him, the training covers poultry farming, fisheries, snail farming, animal husbandry, livestock management and modern agricultural techniques.
Oluyede also highlighted the DHQ’s partnership with Konga/Zinox to provide serving personnel and veterans with access to subsidised purchasing options to cushion prevailing economic challenges.
He assured the veterans that the military would continue to introduce initiatives aimed at improving their quality of life in recognition of their sacrifices and service to the nation.
The programme has as its themed £Enhancing Veterans’ Capacity Building through Sustained Skill Acquisition Training for Enhanced National Development”.(NAN)
