Veterans to get welfare boost as reps move on landmark support bill

Nigeria’s lawmakers are ramping up efforts to improve the welfare of retired military personnel, with the House of Representatives scheduling a public hearing on the proposed Veterans Federation Bill for June 15, while considering a wide-ranging welfare package that includes a dedicated healthcare facility and cost-of-living support for former service members.

 

The move signals growing government attention to the plight of thousands of military veterans who have long complained about inadequate healthcare, limited economic opportunities and insufficient post-service support despite their years of service to the nation. The latest push gained momentum after the Africa Economic Forum (AEF) presented a comprehensive proposal to the National Assembly aimed at strengthening the welfare and financial security of retired armed forces personnel.

 

The proposal was presented during a meeting in Abuja between an AEF delegation led by its Chief Engagement Officer, Dr. Hope Uweja, and the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on the Air Force, Hon. Rufus Ojuawo.

 

According to Uweja, the initiative centres on two key interventions: the establishment of a specialised healthcare centre in Abuja dedicated to retired service members and the launch of a “Senior Life Programme” designed to help veterans manage rising living costs.

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The programme would provide former military personnel with access to discounted goods and services, easing financial pressures faced by many retirees amid Nigeria’s challenging economic environment.

In addition to welfare-focused measures, the AEF proposed the convening of a security summit on the Sahel region to address emerging security threats across West Africa and strengthen cooperation between policymakers and military institutions.

Uweja said the projects would be funded through a blended financing model that would enable government agencies, private sector organisations and development partners to support specific aspects of the programme.

“The proposal will draw funding through the blended financing mechanism, allowing various stakeholders to contribute on aspects they consider of interest and peculiarities,” he said.

Responding on behalf of the committee chairman, Ojuawo, a retired Air Vice Marshal, welcomed the proposal, describing it as a timely contribution to ongoing efforts to improve veterans’ welfare.

He noted that the House is already considering the Veterans Federation Bill, which seeks to establish a more structured framework for addressing the healthcare, economic and social needs of retired military personnel.

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Ojuawo invited the AEF to participate in the public hearing on the bill and contribute recommendations that could strengthen the legislation.

The June 15 hearing is expected to bring together lawmakers, military veterans, policy experts and civil society groups as Nigeria explores new ways to provide lasting support for those who served in the country’s armed forces.