DHQ Trains Veterans in Skills Acquisition to Boost Self-Reliance, Economic Empowerment

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and post service wellbeing of retired personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria with the commencement of a Skill Acquisition Training for Veterans (SAT-V) programme aimed at enhancing self reliance and economic empowerment.

The four day training programme, which began on July 14 and will run until July 17, 2026, is taking place at the Headquarters 22 Brigade, Sobi Cantonment, Ilorin, Kwara State. 

The initiative, organised by the Veterans Affairs Directorate of the DHQ, targets veterans from the North Central geopolitical zone and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military high command described the programme as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the economic resilience and entrepreneurial capacity of retired service personnel across the country.

Declaring the training open, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, said the initiative represents a strategic investment in the welfare of military veterans and demonstrates the Armed Forces’ enduring commitment to personnel who devoted their lives to defending Nigeria.

According to the CDS, the programme's theme, “Enhancing Veterans’ Capacity Building through Sustained Skill Acquisition Training for Enhanced National Development,” highlights the importance of positioning veterans as active contributors to the nation's socio-economic development.

General Oluyede noted that the training aligns with his leadership philosophy, which prioritises improved welfare and sound administration for personnel, both in active service and retirement.

He urged participants to maximise the opportunity by embracing the practical knowledge and vocational skills being offered, stressing that the competencies acquired would not only improve their livelihoods but also enable them to make meaningful contributions to national development.

The CDS was represented at the opening ceremony by the Director of Veterans Affairs, Major General O.D. Williams.

The Skill Acquisition Training for Veterans programme is designed to equip retired military personnel with entrepreneurial and technical skills needed to establish sustainable businesses and create alternative sources of income after leaving active service.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the Defence Headquarters to support veterans' reintegration into civilian life while promoting economic productivity and self-sufficiency among former members of the Armed Forces.