The Defence Headquarters has conducted a three-day Skills Acquisition Training programme for retired personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) in the North-East geopolitical zone. The training, held at the 23 Brigade Officers’ Mess, Gibson Jalo Cantonment, Yola, took place from 19–21 November 2025. It was designed to enhance the wellbeing of veterans and empower them to better navigate the current economic challenges.

This year’s programme was themed “Empowering Veterans Through Skills Acquisition for Capacity Building and Sustainability.”

Representing the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede (AFM), the Director of the Veteran Affairs Division (VAD), Major General Oluwafemi Williams, stated that the initiative aims to equip veterans with practical knowledge and skills that support a meaningful and productive post-service life. He added that the training covers a wide range of vocational skills, livestock management, financial literacy, and business opportunity identification—areas critical to improving the long-standing concerns surrounding veterans’ welfare.

In his keynote address, the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, His Excellency Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Amos Edgar, commended the CDS for the initiative. He emphasized that the programme would significantly enhance the economic wellbeing of veterans in the North-East and urged participants to take full advantage of the expertise provided by the facilitators.

In his welcome address, Major General Williams—represented by the Deputy Director, VAD (Army), Brigadier General Caius Baushe—reaffirmed the CDS’s commitment to the welfare of serving and retired personnel and their families. He noted that the initiative addresses gaps in post-service preparation and strengthens capacity building among veterans.

Highlights of the event included a series of lectures by seasoned facilitators, presentation of certificates to participants, souvenirs to invited dignitaries and facilitators, and a group photograph session to mark the conclusion of the programme.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Chief of Staff to the Adamawa State Governor, Dr. Amos Edgar; the Acting Commander, Sector 4 Operation Hadin Kai/Commander 23 Brigade, Brigadier General Amechi Agwu, who represented the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Nigerian Army; and the Commander 153 Base Services Group, Group Captain M. M. Muazu, among others.

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