FG has reinstated 2,141 civil war veterans into the military pension scheme.

The federal government announced yesterday the re-integration of 2,141 civil war veterans, who fought for Nigeria but retired prior to fulfilling the required years of service to qualify for military pensions.

The Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, revealed this information in Abuja, stating that this action "by the government represents a significant demonstration of equity and national reconciliation, aimed at ensuring that the contributions of veterans are properly acknowledged."

He also mentioned the federal government's plans to reclaim all ungoverned territories within the nation for economic advantages, through a strategically formulated initiative called 'RUSEB-P', which will utilize the skills of retired, capable military veterans to restore security and foster economic growth in areas previously occupied by insurgents.

Badaru said: “To reposition the support structure for ex-service members, we have constituted a committee to review the Nigerian Legion Act, seeking to rename it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria, VFN.

‘’This critical reform will strengthen the legal framework for veterans’ benefits and reintegration programmes.

”In a powerful demonstration of fairness and national reconciliation, the ministry of defence has successfully enrolled 2,141 civil war veterans who fought on the Nigerian side but retired before meeting the stipulated pension qualifying years, ensuring all sacrifices are duly recognised.

“We are also intensifying healthcare support for both veterans and serving personnel through Defence Health Maintenance Limited, DHML, which now serves over 400,000 enrollees, including more than 205,000 veterans and their families, guaranteeing comprehensive primary, secondary and tertiary care across every state.

“Moreover, the payment of n18 billion in Group Life Insurance benefits and the introduction of the debarment allowance are other strategic steps designed to reinforce the dignity of veterans and prevent the misuse of their valuable skills against national interests.”

“However, our strategic vision extends beyond immediate support; it encompasses the long-term, impactful engagement of our seasoned veterans.

“To this end, the Ministry is developing a critical new initiative named the “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme, RUSEB-P.”

“This programme is strategically designed to leverage the expertise of retired, agile military veterans to restore security and promote economic development in previously insurgent-occupied areas.

“By engaging veterans to reinforce local security and initiate projects like farming and mining, RUSEB-P will prevent the resurgence of terrorism, revitalize local economies, and strengthen national security and cohesion. A dedicated committee is currently finalizing the implementation framework.

“This forward-looking approach underscores the significance of the event we commence today.’’