The Defence Headquarters has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of retired Armed Forces personnel with the commencement of a skill acquisition programme aimed at enhancing their self-reliance and economic empowerment.
The four-day Skill Acquisition Training for Veterans, holding in Ilorin, Kwara State, is organised by the Veterans Affairs Directorate for participants from the North-Central geopolitical zone and the Federal Capital Territory.
Declaring the training open, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described the initiative as a strategic investment in the welfare of veterans and a demonstration of the military’s continued commitment to personnel after retirement.
Represented by the Director of Veterans Affairs, Maj.-Gen. O.D. Williams, the CDS said the programme, themed “Enhancing Veterans’ Capacity Building through Sustained Skill Acquisition Training for Enhanced National Development,” is designed to position veterans as productive contributors to national development.
He noted that the initiative aligns with his leadership philosophy of prioritising personnel welfare and sound administration, urging participants to make effective use of the training by acquiring practical entrepreneurial and vocational skills.
Oluyede said the knowledge gained would improve the veterans’ livelihoods while contributing to the country’s socio-economic growth.
The training is expected to equip retired military personnel with technical and entrepreneurial skills to establish sustainable businesses and secure alternative sources of income after active service.
