Need for unity among Nigerian veterans

This call is on Nigerian veterans to support the proposed Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN) which would be a platform that further amplifies the voices of Nigerian veterans and advances their interests. There is presently a contention among the various factions of veterans’ groups under the Legion on whether the Nigerian Legion will cease to […]

This call is on Nigerian veterans to support the proposed Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN) which would be a platform that further amplifies the voices of Nigerian veterans and advances their interests.

There is presently a contention among the various factions of veterans’ groups under the Legion on whether the Nigerian Legion will cease to exist when the Veterans Federation eventually comes on stream. 

The Veterans Federation Bill, which has passed second reading at the National Assembly, is expected to bring together and serve, just like what the Nigerian Legion is presently doing, as an umbrella to all Nigerian veterans, irrespective of affiliation, with some groups insisting on the continued existence of the Nigerian Legion even after the bill becomes law. 

While calling on all factionalised associations to unite, Nigerian veterans should realise that their collective wisdom is needed now more than ever because, as custodians of the legacy of service, it is incumbent to strengthen the bond and ties into a formidable network of support and advocacy.

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The recently introduced harmonised terms of condition of service by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has generated great interest, we call on the veterans to study the key provisions of the document to ensure that their strategies remain relevant, dynamic and truly effective to the needs of veterans.

This, therefore, is a call for collaboration, commitment, transparency and relentless pursuit of excellence by those who have given so much to Nigeria, we call for positive contributions of their experiences and shared perspectives so that together veterans could truly enhance their lives.

Veterans should properly weigh the challenges and benefits in the broader context of their interests and mission. Remember the issues also concern the welfare of widows, fallen heroes and their children and therefore no effort to support this would be too much.

As is the practice in many climes, the military is accorded respect and many privileges in appreciation of their courage and sacrifices in protecting the territorial integrity of Nigeria. It is hoped that those privileges will be extended and enjoyed by the veterans in Nigeria as well.

 

Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jibril (rtd) is the outgoing chairman of the Nigerian Legion