Nigerian Legion Seeks Welfare Reforms, Partnerships

The Nigerian Legion has renewed its push for improved welfare for military veterans and stronger institutional reforms as it convened its 2026 National Council meeting.

At the opening session, the national chairman of Nigerian Legion, Grace Morenike Henry, said the organisation was committed to improving veterans’ living conditions and restoring their dignity.

“It is with a deep sense of humility and gratitude that I stand before you as the National Chairman of the Nigerian Legion to warmly welcome you to the 2026 National Council meeting,” Henry said.

She appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the grand patron of the Nigerian Legion, for her appointment, as well as the support from the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Headquarters.

“My vision for the Nigerian Legion and military veterans is to create a better life for veterans and restore respect, dignity and pride not only to fallen heroes but also to the living legendary veterans,” she stated.

Henry said the meeting would serve as a platform for stakeholders to develop strategies that would improve veterans’ welfare nationwide.

“I therefore urge all of us to speak up. Our deliberations should reflect the purpose of enhancing the welfare of our veterans and draw a roadmap that will benefit all military veterans in Nigeria,” she added.

The chairman disclosed that the Legion had undertaken renovations at its national headquarters to strengthen administrative operations.

She also revealed that the organisation was reviewing partnerships with private-sector investors, including FEMO Global Genetic Services Limited, for the development of Legion-owned land in Lugbe, Abuja.

“All organisations seeking partnership with the Nigerian Legion have been invited to make presentations to the council before any Memorandum of Understanding is signed,” she explained.

Henry raised concerns over funding shortfalls, noting that several pledges made during the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day were yet to be fulfilled.

“I wish to place on record that a significant number of pledges made last year, amounting to about N750 million, remain unfulfilled. I therefore advise all states to be sincere in handling resources to avoid weaknesses and litigations,” she said.

On issues concerning military widows, Henry said steps were being taken to restructure associations representing families of fallen service members.

“I am glad to inform the council that necessary steps have been taken to regularise the Military Widows Association, and elections for its national executive are slated to be held on February 12, 2026,” she stated.

Delivering a goodwill message, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, represented by retired Atiku Abdulkadir, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting veterans.

“The Federal Government remains mindful of the challenges faced by veterans and is working with relevant stakeholders to enhance their welfare through capacity building, economic empowerment and institutional development,” Matawalle said.

He emphasised the importance of the Legion in national development and security.

“Your presence across the country underscores the endurance and relevance of veterans in national unity, peace and stability,” he added.

The council meeting is expected to deliberate on policy reforms and operational strategies to strengthen support systems for retired military personnel and the families of fallen service members across Nigeria.