The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has pledged N25 million to support the medical needs of retired military officers.
The pledge was made through the Emergency Health Fund of the Course 39 Nigerian Defence Academy United Welfare Association.
Shaibu announced the donation on Thursday when the executive committee of the association, led by its President, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola (Rtd), visited the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
The Army Chief said the welfare of military personnel should not end with retirement, stressing that those who had served the country deserved continued support.
Shaibu said, “Caring for those who have served the nation remains an enduring responsibility and an important component of personnel welfare.”
He also emphasised the importance of maintaining strong relationships with retired officers and veterans, noting that their professional experience could contribute to the development of the Nigerian Army.
According to him, such engagement would promote mentorship, preserve institutional knowledge and provide useful insights for tackling emerging security challenges.
Shaibu further disclosed that the Nigerian Army had expanded to 12 divisions and recruited 28,000 personnel through regional training depots in Zaria, Osogbo and Amasiri Edda.
He said the Army was also reviewing its training curriculum, with increased attention to marksmanship, physical fitness and fieldcraft to better prepare personnel for complex security operations.
The COAS added that the Army was strengthening its capacity for multi-domain operations by incorporating space, cyber and non kinetic capabilities.
He also disclosed plans to expand Army aviation and the use of unmanned aerial systems to improve surveillance, mobility and responses to emerging threats.
On retirement planning, Shaibu highlighted the Senior Executive Transition Programme, which prepares senior officers and their spouses for life after active military service.
Earlier, Daramola congratulated Shaibu on his appointment as Chief of Army Staff and his promotion to the rank of lieutenant general.
He commended the Army leadership for its efforts to improve the service’s operational capacity and expressed appreciation for its support to retired officers, particularly in health insurance, emergency assistance and capacity-building.
Daramola said members of Course 39 remained available to support the Army with their professional and leadership experience.
“Members of Course 39 remain willing to contribute their extensive operational, technical and leadership experience through mentorship, advisory support and specialised expertise,” he said.
The meeting underscored the Army’s renewed focus on personnel welfare, veteran engagement, professional development and improved operational capabilities.
