The Female Military Veterans Association (FMVAN) was officially launched yesterday, marking a significant step toward amplifying the voices of women who have served in the nation’s armed forces.
The organisation aims to advocate for greater recognition and support for female veterans, highlighting their unique contributions and challenges in civilian life.
FMVAN BOT, Maj. Gen. Abimbola Amusu (Retd) expressed pride in this milestone, urging the corporate and social sectors to recognise veterans’ contributions.
She noted that female soldiers have historically played crucial roles in global conflicts, often unacknowledged, and have endured considerable sacrifices.
“Many women left the military with physical and mental scars yet faded into obscurity post-retirement. FMVAN will provide a safe space for veterans to connect, share experiences, and advocate for recognition.
“There is still a need for more recognition of veterans in Nigeria. I hope this event encourages both the corporate and social sectors to acknowledge that all veterans, male and female, deserve appreciation. Women have played vital roles in the military globally, particularly during the two world wars.
“These conflicts greatly expanded their involvement from support roles to front-line responsibilities. After the wars, many women were forgotten, and their contributions were unrecorded. Some faced disabilities, homelessness, or, where they paid the ultimate price, left behind families who grieved in silence. They were often neither rehabilitated nor honoured for their service,” Amusu stated.
Uju Rochas, the special assistant to the vice president on Public Health, commended the association, describing female veterans as “warriors, leaders, and changemakers.
“The establishment of this association is both timely and vital. As the world recognizes the indispensable role of women in security and defence, this association is a powerful reminder that female veterans are not only warriors but also leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Service doesn’t end with the uniform; it transforms and empowers,” Rochas remarked.
She proposed that FMVAN establish a protocol emphasizing health and nutrition for veterans and the communities they serve, encouraging collaboration with national initiatives like the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The association’s national coordinator, Veteran Morenike Grace Henry, acknowledged the unique struggles faced by female veterans, many of whom rely on minimal pensions.
“Supporting female veterans is deeply important to me. Through my travels, I’ve seen the unique challenges they face—many are single mothers or, heartbreakingly, have no family to turn to. Some live on pensions as low as 35,000 Naira monthly, barely covering basic expenses. I, too, rely on a modest pension, but I still give what I can to support my fellow veterans because we stand for each other,” she said.
Henry emphasised FMVAN’s commitment to solidarity and ensuring no member is left unsupported.
In a stirring address, First Female RSM Veteran Grace Pethom reflected on her service, recounting lessons of resilience and sacrifice. She encouraged female veterans to embrace their identity and continue contributing to national peace and security.
Abdulmalik Jibril, a key supporter, congratulated the association on its establishment and urged collaboration with Nigeria’s other veteran organizations.
“Veterans are people who, at one point, were ready to risk their lives for Nigeria. They deserve our utmost respect,” he said, adding that FMVAN joins similar organisations worldwide, standing as a beacon of resilience and strength for retired female soldiers.
Through advocacy and camaraderie, the association aims to ensure that the service and sacrifices of female veterans are never forgotten.
