The regular meeting is to afford the Africa Chiefs of Defence Staff the opportunity to forge a common goal towards arresting insecurity in the continent.

Before the official flag-off of the Conference, the CDS seized the opportunity to have a bilateral engagement with the United States Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Charles Brown JR, where critical security issues were discussed.

The Conference was officially opened by the Botswana President, His Excellency, Dr Mokgwetsi Eric Keanetswe Masisi. The meeting had about 42 countries in attendance.

A statement by the Acting Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau said General Musa also participated as lead panelist on “Peacekeeping, Counter terrorism/violent extremism and crises response operations” among other panel discussants.

The Objectives of the panel discussion was to enhance operational readiness through best practices and integration using technology as a ready tool for effective results. Highlights of the events includes the panels on security sector governance and Civil-Militaty Relations among others.

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters has organized the maiden Armed Forces of Nigeria Veterans Stakeholders Forum with the theme “The Nigerian Armed Forces Veterans in the Next Decade.”

Held at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai Auditorium in the Army War College Nigeria, Asokoro, Abuja, the two-day event aimed at enhancing the welfare and future prospects of Nigerian military veterans.commenced on June 25, 2024, and will concluded on June 26, 2024.

The Special Guest of Honour (SGOH), the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, represented by Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shettima, Director of Plans Defence Headquarters, delivered a keynote address.

In his speech, the CDS highlighted the significance of the forum in recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of veterans, and emphasized the need for continuous efforts to improve their welfare.

He acknowledges the recent strides, such as the disbursement of the Security Debarment Allowance, a 20% increase in pension rates, and the inclusion of veterans in federal palliative programs, as notable achievements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

“Your presence here today underscores our collective dedication to the well-being of our veterans,” General Musa added. 

He commended the ongoing efforts and achievements in veteran welfare, such as various scholarship and educational programs for orphans, pre- and post-retirement programs, and medical interventions. 

The CDS also noted the establishment of a committee to develop a long-term strategic roadmap for veteran administration, with studies conducted in the UK, and planned visits to Egypt and the USA for additional perspectives.

The forum will be addressing several critical issues, including governance in veteran administration, health and well-being, skills development, post-service employment, legal matters, and the protection and security of veterans.

General Musa urged participants to engage in objective and professional deliberations, assuring them that the outcomes will guide future improvements in veteran administration.

While appreciating the Special Guest of Honour, the Director of Veteran Affairs Defence Headquarters, Major General DI Salihu, who also serves as the Chairman Organizing Committee, expressed gratitude to the SGOH for his presence.

General Salihu emphasized the significance of the forum in addressing veteran issues, highlighting the collaborative efforts needed to implement the outcomes of the discussions. He presented a souvenir to the SGOH as a token of appreciation, underscoring the forum’s role in fostering cooperation and tangible progress in veteran welfare initiatives. 

The forum signifies a giant step towards ensuring the well-being and recognition of Nigerian military veterans, aligning with the Armed Forces’ commitment to nurturing a professional and people-centric military.