In line with the COAS initiative to constantly engage the Nigerian Army Veterans towards sustaining national security, a week long seminar for veterans mainly from North Eastern Nigeria has been declared open on 15 August 2022 at Yola, the Adamawa State capital.

Declaring the event open, the Special Guest of Honour, Executive Governor of Adamawa state Rt Hon Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri commended the COAS, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya for the strategic programme of reintegrating and engaging the veterans who have paid the outmost price to keep the country safe and united. He equally appreciated the veterans for their selfless service to the nation and charged them always avail themselves to contribute to the national security of the country.

In his keynote address the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC)3 Division Nigerian Army Major General Ibrahim Ali reminded the participants of the important roles required of them especially at the critical security challenges bedeviling the country. The COAS reiterated the commitment Nigerian Army under his leadership is making towards improving the living condition of the veterans.

The COAS further stated the ultimate objective of the event which he said was to enhance the capacity of the veterans towards achieving his vision “To Build a Professional Nigerian Army Ready to Accomplish Assigned Missions within a joint Environment in Defence of Nigeria”. He revealed the need to galvanize efforts of patriotic Nigerians synergizing with both serving and retired personnel and other security agencies towards overcoming the emerging threats to security of the nation.

The COAS added that the Nigerian Army will continue to reap from the wealth of experience of its veterans while ensuring their well-being.

In his welcome address, the commander 23 Brigade Yola Brig Gen AM Garba thanked the leadership of the NA for finding 23 brigade worthy to host the epoch making event. He urged the participants to put to use what ever wealth of knowledge they will obtain from the seminar towards a better future of the country.

The event which was also attendance by the Director Veterans Affairs Department Administration Army, Major General MT Durowaye was equally attended by the National Chairman Nigerian Legion, representative of the Director Veterans Affairs Defence Headquarters and heads of security agencies among others.

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Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff Engages Army Veterans Toward Sustaining National Security