The Chairman, National Council of the Nigerian Legion, Ms Grace Morenike Henry, has reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to championing the welfare and well-being of Nigeria’s military veterans. Speaking at the ongoing Veteran Affairs Pre-Retirement Training and Business Development Seminar organized by the Nigerian Army’s Directorate of Veteran Affairs at Arakan Barracks, Apapa, Lagos, Ms Henry emphasized the need for a holistic approach to preparing soldiers for life after military service.
The week-long seminar, which commenced on August 3, 2025, with the theme “Building Resilience of Personnel/Veterans for Thriving in Post-Retirement Life,” is a strategic initiative aimed at equipping retiring soldiers with the tools and knowledge to navigate the challenges of civilian life successfully.
Ms Henry, who has been attending the sessions, described the program as a critical intervention that aligns with her vision of ensuring that no veteran is left behind. “This seminar is not just a program; it is a lifeline. As soldiers, you have served Nigeria with courage and dedication. It is now our collective duty, as institutions and stakeholders, to ensure you are adequately prepared to thrive after service,” she said.
She commended the Nigerian Army Headquarters Department of Administration and the Directorate of Veteran Affairs for sustaining such impactful initiatives and called for greater inter-agency collaboration to institutionalize post-service welfare schemes for veterans.
“Our veterans should not be left to navigate the harsh realities of civilian life alone. Beyond business development training, we must push for robust policies that guarantee access to healthcare, financial support, and entrepreneurial opportunities. The Legion under my leadership is fully committed to driving these conversations and ensuring actionable outcomes,” she added.
Ms Henry’s active participation in the seminar has been widely lauded by both serving and retired personnel, as a sign of her hands-on approach to veterans’ welfare advocacy.
The seminar, which is hosted by the Headquarters 81 Division, Nigerian Army, with the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, as Chief Host, continues until August 10, 2025.
Abdul Lauya
Special Adviser Media
Nigerian Legion National Headquarters, Abuja