By Reportcircle Abuja
In a decisive move to confront the mounting economic pressures facing retired military personnel, the Defence Headquarters has rolled out an intensive three-day Skills Acquisition Training programme for Veterans of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) across the North-East geopolitical zone.
The programme, held at the 23 Brigade Officers’ Mess, Gibson Jalo Cantonment, Yola, from 19–21 November 2025, marks one of the most ambitious welfare-driven interventions for ex-service members in recent years.
This year’s theme “Empowering Veterans Through Skills Acquisition for Capacity Building and Sustainability” underscores a sharp shift toward building long-term economic resilience for those who once bore the weight of Nigeria’s security challenges.
Representing the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, AFM, the Director of the Veteran Affairs Division (VAD), Major General Oluwafemi Williams, said the initiative seeks to equip Veterans with market-ready skills and entrepreneurial competencies that guarantee a meaningful and productive post-service life.
According to the CDS, the training spans vocational skills, livestock management, financial literacy and business opportunity identification, a bouquet designed to tackle long-standing concerns around reintegration and economic self-reliance among retired personnel.
“This is a deliberate effort to transform the wellbeing and quality of life of our Veterans,” he said.
The Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Amos Edgar, commended the Defence Headquarters for what he described as a timely and visionary intervention.
He noted that the North-East, having borne the brunt of insurgency for over a decade, stands to gain significantly from any initiative that strengthens the economic stability of ex-service members.
He urged the beneficiaries to seize the opportunity, emphasizing that the training could redefine their economic pathways if taken seriously.
In his welcome address, Director of VAD, Major General Williams, represented by Deputy Director VAD (Army), Brigadier General Caius Baushe, reaffirmed the CDS’ commitment to prioritizing the welfare of both serving and retired personnel.
He stressed that inadequate post-service preparation has long been a challenge, and the training is a direct response aimed at equipping Veterans with relevant tools for sustainable living.
The event featured expert-led lectures, presentation of certificates, souvenirs to dignitaries and facilitators, and a group photograph session that capped the programme.
Among dignitaries in attendance were the Chief of Staff to the Adamawa State Governor, Dr. Amos Edgar; Acting Commander Sector 4 Operation Hadin Kai and Commander 23 Brigade, Brigadier General Amechi Agwu, who represented the General Officer Commanding 3 Division; and the Commander 153 Base Services Group, Group Captain MM Muazu, among others.
