By Bavoriat Clara
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, dignity, and recognition of Nigerian military veterans.
He gave the assurance on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, during a press briefing to officially commence activities for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) held at the Sani Abacha Hall, National Defence College, Abuja.
The Minister described the AFCRD as a solemn period for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to the ideals of service and unity that define the Armed Forces. According to him, this year’s theme, “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” captures the courage, dedication, and patriotism of Nigerian soldiers both serving and retired who have stood firm in defence of the nation.
Badaru noted that the celebration goes beyond honouring the fallen heroes, as it also focuses on living veterans whose sacrifices and contributions continue to strengthen national security, peace, and development. He emphasized that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Ministry of Defence has prioritized veterans’ welfare through robust reforms, financial interventions, and policy innovations that reflect the administration’s deep appreciation for their service.
Highlighting key achievements, the Minister revealed that more than 2,141 Civil War veterans who fought on the Nigerian side but retired before meeting pension qualification have now been enrolled to receive benefits. He described the move as “a powerful demonstration of fairness, justice, and national reconciliation,” noting that no sacrifice should go unrecognized.
He further disclosed that the Ministry of Defence has paid out ₦18 billion in Group Life Insurance benefits to the families of fallen service members and introduced the Debarment Allowance to support retiring personnel. These measures, he said, aim to uphold the dignity of service and provide financial stability for military families.
To ensure better service delivery and improve access to welfare support, the Ministry has established a Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre, which will serve as a central digital platform for efficient grievance management, welfare monitoring, and communication with ex-service members nationwide. The platform is expected to be launched officially as part of the activities lined up for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
The Minister also announced that a committee has been constituted to review the Nigerian Legion Act with the aim of renaming it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN). This reform, he explained, will strengthen the legal framework for veterans’ benefits, reintegration, and welfare programs, ensuring that ex-service members have a stronger voice and improved institutional support.
Speaking further, Badaru disclosed that the Ministry is implementing a strategic initiative known as the “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P)”. The programme aims to engage retired but physically capable veterans in rebuilding and securing communities previously affected by insurgency. Through their participation in local security, agriculture, and mining projects, the initiative is designed to promote stability, prevent the resurgence of terrorism, and contribute to economic revitalization in post-conflict areas.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring quality healthcare for both serving and retired personnel through the Defence Health Maintenance Limited (DHML), which currently serves over 400,000 enrollees, including 205,000 veterans and their families, across the country.
“Our veterans are the living symbols of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism,” the Minister said. “They deserve not only our gratitude but sustainable systems that ensure they live with dignity and comfort after years of dedicated service.”
As part of efforts to promote public participation and appreciation for the military, Badaru unveiled a new digital engagement platform called the “Thank A Soldier” QR Code, which allows Nigerians at home and abroad to send personalized messages of encouragement and appreciation to serving troops and veterans.
He also outlined the series of activities planned for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, including the National Emblem Appeal Launch by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 27 November 2025; Special Jumaat and Interdenominational Thanksgiving Services on 9 and 11 January 2026 respectively; Humanitarian Outreach and Family/Community Day on 10 January; a National Symposium and Lecture Series on 12 January; Gala and Fundraising Dinner on 13 January; Medical Outreach and Free Day on 14 January; and the National Wreath-Laying Ceremony on 15 January 2026 at the National Arcade, Abuja, and across all states of the federation.
Badaru concluded by calling on Nigerians to honour the nation’s heroes, wear the remembrance emblem with pride, and support the families of those who have paid the supreme price. He also urged the media to give wide and impactful coverage to the commemoration activities to inspire unity and patriotism among citizens.
“Let us honour our past, support our present, and secure our future,” he said. “Together, we reaffirm our commitment to a stronger, safer, and more united Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
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