Nigeria’s National Assembly is set to deepen discussions on veterans’ welfare as lawmakers consider proposals aimed at improving healthcare and economic support for retired military personnel ahead of a public hearing on the proposed Veterans Federation Bill.
AEF Presents Welfare Package
The latest initiative came from the Africa Economic Forum (AEF), which presented a package of welfare proposals to the House of Representatives Committee on the Air Force during a meeting in Abuja. The AEF delegation, led by its Chief Engagement Officer, Dr Hope Uweja, outlined plans that include the establishment of a dedicated healthcare facility for retired members of the armed forces in the Federal Capital Territory and the introduction of a programme designed to ease the financial burden on veterans.
According to Uweja, the proposed “Senior Life Programme” would provide retired service personnel with access to goods and services at discounted rates as part of efforts to strengthen their economic well-being after active service. He said the initiative seeks to address longstanding concerns about the quality of post-service support available to former military personnel, many of whom continue to face healthcare and financial challenges in retirement.
Regional Security Summit
The proposal also included plans for a regional security summit focused on the Sahel, reflecting increasing concerns about the security situation across West Africa and the importance of sustained collaboration between policymakers and the armed forces.
Uweja explained that the projects would be financed through a blended funding framework involving government institutions, private sector organisations and other stakeholders. “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.
Lawmakers Welcome Initiative
Responding on behalf of the Chairman of the House Committee on the Air Force, the Deputy Chairman, Hon. Rufus Ojuawo, welcomed the initiative and described it as timely. Ojuawo, a retired Air Vice Marshal, said the proposals aligned with broader efforts by lawmakers to address the welfare needs of military veterans through legislative reforms.
His remarks come as the House of Representatives advances deliberations on the proposed Veterans Federation Bill, legislation intended to strengthen institutional support for former members of the armed forces and address concerns surrounding healthcare, economic security and post-service welfare. The lawmaker invited the Africa Economic Forum to participate in the public hearing on the bill and contribute to ongoing discussions on reforms aimed at improving veterans’ quality of life.
Public Hearing Scheduled
The public hearing on the proposed Veterans Federation Bill has been scheduled for 15 June 2026. The reception given to the proposals by lawmakers suggests growing recognition within the legislature of the need for more structured interventions to support retired military personnel, many of whom have long advocated improved healthcare access, social protection and economic opportunities after years of national service.
If enacted and effectively implemented, stakeholders believe the emerging reforms could mark an important step towards strengthening Nigeria’s support system for its veterans and recognising their contributions beyond active duty.
