In a significant address highlighting the vital role of collaboration in national security, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede articulated that safeguarding the nation extends beyond the confines of security agencies and relies heavily on the active participation of all citizens.
This assertion was made during the Army Headquarters Department of Administration’s First Quarter Year 2025 Veteran Affairs Pre-Retirement Training and Business Development Seminar, held in Kaduna on Monday.
Represented by Maj.-Gen. U.T. Opuene, Deputy Chief of Administration of the Nigerian Army, Lt.-Gen. Oluyede underscored the seminar’s theme, “Effective Planning Towards Mitigating Challenges/Issues Affecting Nigerian Army Personnel/Veterans in Post-Retirement Life Within a Civil Environment.”
He emphasized the ongoing efforts to build on previous seminar successes while integrating the feedback of both active military personnel and veterans to enhance national security and overall well-being.
“My Command Philosophy focuses on transforming the Nigerian Army into a well-motivated and combat-ready force capable of effectively carrying out its constitutional duties,” Oluyede stated.
“The contributions of Nigerian Army personnel and veterans are crucial to the country’s security framework, comparable to practices in other nations.” he added.
The seminar aims to prepare personnel nearing retirement and veterans for a constructive transition to civilian life, promoting a positive outlook towards retirement and potential business ventures. Lt.-Gen. Oluyede noted the changing political and economic landscape in Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for citizens to recognize that security is a shared responsibility.
“The collaboration, synergy, and contributions from our active and retired personnel, coupled with a deep understanding of the security system, can significantly enhance effective security management in the country,” he remarked.
He encouraged veterans to leverage financial education and business ideas for their benefit, urging active participation during the seminar’s discussions.
In his welcome address, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army, described the seminar as a unique opportunity for participant capacity development. Saraso expressed that the event would aim to build on previous seminar successes, ensuring that gaps in employing Nigerian Army personnel and veterans for information gathering and support in military operations are effectively addressed.
He also noted that the seminar is designed to uplift the morale of participants, reinforcing their sense of belonging while enhancing their productivity and welfare in retirement. Saraso acknowledged the COAS’s unwavering support for the division, reflecting a shared commitment to the welfare of army personnel and veterans.
This seminar marks a pivotal step in shaping a collaborative approach to national security, fostering a community where both active duty and retired personnel actively contribute to the safety and well-being of Nigeria.
