CDS, Oluyede, Engages North-East Veterans, Assures Of Improved Welfare

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Defence Headquarters to improving the welfare and dignity of Nigeria’s veterans.

Oluyede gave the assurance on Thursday during an interactive engagement with veterans from the North-East geopolitical zone in Yola, Adamawa State.

The engagement was the second in a series of zonal consultations with veterans across the country.

Addressing concerns over salary and pension increases, the CDS assured the veterans that the ongoing exercise was all-inclusive.

He explained that implementation was already underway, adding that, in line with existing policies, adjustments to the emoluments of serving personnel would have a consequential increase in the pensions of veterans.

Oluyede said: “The exercise is all-inclusive, and implementation is ongoing. In line with extant policies, adjustments to the emoluments of serving personnel have a consequential increase to the pensions of veterans.”

The CDS also highlighted initiatives by the Defence Headquarters to improve the welfare of veterans and their families.

These include collaboration with the Bank of Industry to provide access to low-interest loans for business enterprises for serving and retired personnel and their families, as well as the ongoing construction of the Defence Hospital.

He said a percentage of the hospital’s patronage would be reserved for veterans.

According to Oluyede, the initiatives have the backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has provided resources to drive them in recognition of the sacrifices made by serving and retired military personnel.

The veterans also presented other welfare concerns, which the CDS addressed while assuring them that their issues would continue to receive appropriate attention.

The engagement was attended by veteran leaders, including the President of the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers Association (RANAO), Major General H.A. Salihu (rtd), Major General L.P. Ngubane (rtd) and Air Vice Marshal N.E. Nzokala (rtd).

Speaking on behalf of the veterans, Salihu expressed appreciation to the CDS and urged veterans to support efforts by the Armed Forces leadership to improve the welfare of serving and retired personnel.

In his closing remarks, Oluyede paid tribute to the veterans for their sacrifices in defending the nation.

He said: “The uniform may have been taken off, but the nation’s gratitude will never fade.”

The CDS further assured the veterans that the Defence Headquarters, under the Ministry of Defence, would continue to work towards improving their welfare.

He added: “Nigeria will forever cherish the service, courage and sacrifices of those who served to keep the nation safe.”

The statement was signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, on Thursday, August 20, 2026.