IBB calls for better funding for military veterans

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Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida(retd)

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Former military head of state, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has called for improved funding and stronger welfare support for Nigerian military veterans and families of fallen soldiers.

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Babangida made the call when the National Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Ms Morenike Henry, led members of the Legion’s leadership on a courtesy visit to him at his residence in Minna, Niger.

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This is contained in a statement by Mr Oloriegbe David, Legions Media Officer, on Friday in Abuja.

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Babangida acknowledged the challenges raised by the Legion and assured the delegation that he would reach out to relevant authorities to explore ways of addressing the welfare concerns affecting veterans.

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The former military president also commended the leadership of the Nigerian Legion for its commitment to promoting the welfare and recognition of retired military personnel.

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According to him, the sacrifices made by veterans in the defence of the nation must not be overlooked.

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Earlier, Ms Henry highlighted some of the major challenges confronting veterans, including inadequate medical assistance, limited funding for healthcare and the economic hardship faced by widows of soldiers who lost their lives in active service.

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She appealed for support to secure financial assistance equivalent to five to six months’ salary for the widows to help them establish small businesses and improve their livelihoods.

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Henry noted that many soldiers enlisted at a young age and often face limited support structures after retirement or death in service.

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The Legion chairman also reiterated her advocacy for the establishment of a Ministry of Veterans Affairs to provide structured and sustainable support for retired military personnel.

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In another engagement, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, urged the leadership of the Legion against staging protests in pursuit of their demands.

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Undiandeye commended the initiative to establish a Ministry of Veterans Affairs and emphasised the importance of transparency in the utilisation of funds.

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He urged the leadership of the Legion to prioritise programmes that directly impact the welfare of veterans.

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The defence intelligence chief stressed that constructive engagement with relevant government authorities remained the most effective approach to securing funding and policy support.

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In her response, the Chairman of the Legion expressed appreciation to the CDI for his support towards the successful hosting of the Nigerian Legion Council meeting. (NAN)

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