FG re-absorbs 2,141 civil war veterans into military pensions scheme

…Plans to reclaim ungoverned spaces

By Kingsley Omonobi

The federal government yesterday announced the re-absorption of 2,141 civil war veterans, who fought on the Nigerian side but retired before meeting the stipulated pension qualifying years to be eligible to collect military pensions.

The Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, who disclosed this in Abuja, said the gesture “of government signifies a powerful demonstration of fairness and national reconciliation, aimed at ensuring all sacrifices of veterans are duly recognised.”

He also disclosed of plans by the federal government to reclaim all ungoverned spaces in the country for economic benefits, through a strategically designed programme, known as ‘RUSEB-P’, that would leverage the expertise of retired, agile military veterans to restore security and promote economic development in previously insurgent-occupied areas.

  Badaru said:  “To reposition the support structure for ex-service members, we have constituted a committee to review the Nigerian Legion Act, seeking to rename it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria, VFN.

‘’This critical reform will strengthen the legal framework for veterans’ benefits and reintegration programmes.

 ”In a powerful demonstration of fairness and national reconciliation, the ministry of defence has successfully enrolled 2,141 civil war veterans who fought on the Nigerian side but retired before meeting the stipulated pension qualifying years, ensuring all sacrifices are duly recognised.

  “We are also intensifying healthcare support for both veterans and serving personnel through Defence Health Maintenance Limited, DHML, which now serves over 400,000 enrollees, including more than 205,000 veterans and their families, guaranteeing comprehensive primary, secondary and tertiary care across every state.

  “Moreover, the payment of n18 billion in Group Life Insurance benefits and the introduction of the debarment allowance are other strategic steps designed to reinforce the dignity of veterans and prevent the misuse of their valuable skills against national interests.”

  “However, our strategic vision extends beyond immediate support; it encompasses the long-term, impactful engagement of our seasoned veterans.

  “To this end, the Ministry is developing a critical new initiative named the “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme, RUSEB-P.”

  “This programme is strategically designed to leverage the expertise of retired, agile military veterans to restore security and promote economic development in previously insurgent-occupied areas.

  “By engaging veterans to reinforce local security and initiate projects like farming and mining, RUSEB-P will prevent the resurgence of terrorism, revitalize local economies, and strengthen national security and cohesion. A dedicated committee is currently finalizing the implementation framework.

  “This forward-looking approach underscores the significance of the event we commence today.’’

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