AEF Unveils ‘Renewed Hope’ Plan for Nigerian Veterans, Targets Healthcare, Economic Support

"The initiative was designed to improve the quality of life of retired military personnel through the proposed Senior Life Programme, which would provide beneficiaries with access to essential goods and services at discounted rates, thereby strengthening their personal economies." Uweja

The Africa Economic Forum (AEF) has presented a comprehensive welfare proposal for retired military personnel in Nigeria, featuring the establishment of a state-of-the-art health services centre in Abuja and an economic empowerment programme for veterans.

The proposal was unveiled by AEF Chief Engagement Officer, Dr Hope Uweja, during a courtesy visit by the organisation’s delegation to the Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on the Air Force, Hon. Rufus Ojuawo, in Abuja.

Dr Uweja said the initiative was designed to improve the quality of life of retired military personnel through the proposed Senior Life Programme, which would provide beneficiaries with access to essential goods and services at discounted rates, thereby strengthening their personal economies.

He explained that the AEF plan also includes a Security Summit for the Sahel region, aimed at promoting stronger collaboration among stakeholders and the Armed Forces in addressing growing security challenges across West Africa.

According to him, funding for the initiative would be sourced through a blended financing model, allowing different partners and stakeholders to support areas aligned with their interests and expertise.

Responding, Hon. Ojuawo, a retired Air Vice Marshal, described the proposal as timely, noting that it aligns with ongoing legislative efforts to improve veterans’ welfare.

He disclosed that the House of Representatives is working towards the passage of a Veterans Federation Bill, which seeks to provide a stronger framework for addressing challenges affecting retired military personnel.

Ojuawo also invited the AEF to participate in the public hearing on the bill scheduled for Monday, June 15, 2026, to contribute its ideas towards shaping policies for veterans’ welfare.