By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) to improving veterans’ welfare through sustainable empowerment initiatives that promote economic independence and better living conditions.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, on Tuesday, 14 October 2026.
General Oluyede stated this during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Skill Acquisition Training for Veterans in the South-West geopolitical zone, organised by the DHQ Veterans Affairs Division at Headquarters 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The programme, themed “Enhancing Veterans’ Capacity Building through Sustained Skill Acquisition Training for Enhanced National Development,” is designed to equip participants with practical skills in poultry farming, fishery, snail farming, animal husbandry, livestock management and modern agricultural techniques to promote self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.
Represented at the event by the Director, Veterans Affairs Directorate, DHQ, Major General O.D. Williams, the CDS 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 veterans that the DHQ would continue to introduce initiatives to improve their quality of life.
General Oluyede urged participants to maximise the opportunity and translate the skills acquired into productive ventures that would benefit their families and contribute to national development.
He reiterated that the welfare of veterans remains a key priority of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, assuring them of continued support in recognition of their sacrifices and service to the nation.
