FG to Deploy Military Veterans to Secure Ungoverned Spaces, Boost Economic Activities

The Federal Government has announced plans to deploy retired military veterans to help secure Nigeria’s ungoverned spaces as part of its broader strategy to strengthen national security and stimulate economic activities in conflict-affected areas.

The initiative, unveiled at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja, is aimed at integrating experienced veterans into local security operations, community stabilization efforts, and development projects in areas where state presence has been weak. The scheme also seeks to reposition the Nigerian Legion Corps of Commissionaires and Veterans for greater national relevance. Speaking at the inauguration of an 18-member committee to oversee the programme, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), said the deployment of veterans would complement ongoing military operations, enhance intelligence gathering, and foster trust between communities and security agencies. He emphasized that insecurity in Nigeria is both a military and socio-economic challenge, requiring long-term, community-driven solutions. The deliberate integration of veterans into security and development initiatives will enhance local ownership, improve intelligence gathering, and strengthen community trust,” Musa said. The committee’s responsibilities include overseeing the deployment of veterans to ungoverned spaces, supporting national economic development, and reforming the Nigerian Legion Corps to improve its operational effectiveness and reintegration of retired personnel. Members of the committee were drawn from key defence institutions, including the Defence Headquarters, Defence Intelligence Agency, Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, the Nigerian Legion, and the Offices of the Ministers of Defence and State for Defence. Security experts have welcomed the initiative, noting that the inclusion of military veterans could help reduce criminal activity in remote and volatile regions while relieving pressure on active-duty forces engaged in combating insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping. Officials also expect the programme to boost economic recovery in conflict-affected areas by creating safer conditions for farming, trade, and other productive activities, effectively linking security with development.