The Office of the Special Adviser, Media and Public Relations, has in recent weeks been inundated with persistent requests and inquiries from the Nigerian veterans’ community concerning the mandates and roles of the Nigerian Legion.
In response, and in line with the renewed spirit of transparency and accountability under the leadership of the National Chairman, Ms. Grace Morenike Henry, the following information is hereby provided for the benefit of our teeming veterans and their families-many of whom may have known little about the organization due to its opaque activities in the past.
KNOW YOUR NIGERIAN LEGION – A QUICK GUIDE FOR VETERANS AND FAMILIES
What is the Nigerian Legion?
The Nigerian Legion is a government-recognized veterans’ organization established by the Nigerian Legion Act, 1988 (as amended).
Its primary responsibilities include promoting the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families, preserving the memory of fallen heroes, and implementing livelihood support programs.
Who leads the Nigerian Legion?
i. The President of Nigeria serves as Grand Patron.
ii. State Governors serve as Patrons in their respective states.
iii. The National Council is led by the National Chairman.
iv. State Councils are led by State Chairmen.
v. Area Councils (Local Government level) are led by Local Government Chairmen.
vi. Elected leaders and representatives of ex-servicemen associations form part of the structure.
Main Roles of the Legion
- Veteran Welfare – support for disabled, sick, and elderly ex-servicemen.
- Comradeship – unity, mutual help, and fellowship among veterans.
- Family Support – assistance to widows, orphans, and dependents of deceased servicemen.
- Employment & Training – vocational programs, settlement support, and job advocacy.
- Housing & Social Services – hostels, farms, estates, and recreational centers.
- Remembrance & Honours – maintaining war memorials and organizing the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
Funding Sources
i. Federal Government contributions.
ii. Annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem sales.
iii. Donations, bazaars, and auctions.
iv. Investments, businesses, and property ventures (transport, farms, estates, supermarkets, hostels, etc.).
v. Membership fees.
Membership of the Nigerian Legion
Membership is open to ex-servicemen of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Categories include:
Ordinary, Life, Honorary, Associate, and Women’s Auxiliary.
Accountability Measures
The Nigerian Legion is required by law to:
i. Maintain audited accounts annually.
ii. Submit reports to the Minister of Defence.
iii. Operate under strict financial rules and procedures.
Why the Legion Matters
i. It is the only statutory veterans’ body in Nigeria.
ii. Provides a unified voice for veterans in welfare and policy matters.
iii. Preserves the memory of fallen heroes.
iv. Builds strong support systems for veterans and their families.
Key Takeaway
The Nigerian Legion is your/our organization, established by law to serve, support, and protect the dignity of Nigerian veterans and their dependents.
Veterans seeking membership, welfare benefits, or wishing to lodge complaints are encouraged to contact their Local Government (Area) Council or the State Command of the Nigerian Legion nearest to them.
e-Signed
Vet Abdul Lauya, anipr
Special Adviser Media & Public Relations
3 September, 2025.