By Miriam Humbe
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.
Major General Samaila Uba, the Director Defence Information disclosed this in a statement signed on Wednesday.
The CDS was speaking during the opening ceremony of 2026 Skill Acquisition Training for Veterans in the South West Geopolitical Zone, organised by the DHQ Veteran 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”, equips 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.
General Oluyede 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.
The CDS 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 an important priority of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, assuring them of continued support in recognition of their sacrifices and service to the nation.
The CDS was represented at the event by the Director, Veterans Affairs Directorate DHQ Major General OD Williams.
