By Chimezie Godfrey
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has rolled out a three-day Skills Acquisition Training for veterans of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) in the North-East, aimed at strengthening their wellbeing and improving their resilience amid current economic challenges.
Held from 19–21 November 2025 at the 23 Brigade Officers’ Mess, Gibson Jalo Cantonment, Yola, the programme featured the theme: “Empowering Veterans Through Skills Acquisition for Capacity Building and Sustainability.”
Speaking at the opening session, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, AFM, represented by the Director, Veteran Affairs Division (VAD), Major General Oluwafemi Williams, said the initiative was designed to equip veterans with practical skills and knowledge required for a productive and meaningful post-service life.
According to him, the training covers key areas including vocational skills, livestock management, financial literacy, and business opportunity identification—components he said would directly tackle long-standing concerns over the welfare and economic stability of retired personnel.
Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Amos Edgar, commended the CDS for prioritising veterans’ empowerment. He noted that the programme would contribute significantly to improving the livelihoods of retired military personnel in the North-East, urging participants to maximise the opportunity presented by the expert-led sessions.
In his welcome remarks, the Director, VAD, Major General Williams—represented by Brigadier General Caius Baushe, Deputy Director VAD (Army)—reaffirmed that the CDS has continued to prioritise the welfare of both serving and retired personnel. He described the training as a deliberate intervention to bridge gaps in post-service preparedness and promote sustainable capacity development.
The event featured lectures by skilled facilitators, presentation of certificates, souvenirs to dignitaries, and a group photograph session.
Notable attendees included the Chief of Staff to the Adamawa State Governor, Dr. Amos Edgar; Acting Commander Sector 4 Operation Hadin Kai/Commander 23 Brigade, Brigadier General Amechi Agwu, who represented the GOC 3 Division; and Commander 153 Base Services Group, Group Captain M.M. Muazu.