The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has commenced a four-day Skill Acquisition Training for Veterans (SAT-V) in the North Central Geopolitical Zone and the Federal Capital Territory as part of efforts to promote self-reliance and improve the economic well-being of retired personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The training, organised by the Veterans Affairs Directorate of the Defence Headquarters, is taking place from July 14 to 17, 2026, at the Headquarters 22 Brigade, Sobi Cantonment, Ilorin, Kwara State.
Declaring the programme open, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, GCOR, described the initiative as a strategic investment in the welfare of military veterans and a demonstration of the Armed Forces’ continued commitment to personnel even after retirement.
According to the CDS, the programme, themed “Enhancing Veterans’ Capacity Building through Sustained Skill Acquisition Training for Enhanced National Development,” is aimed at equipping veterans with practical skills that will enable them to remain productive and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
General Oluyede said the initiative aligns with his leadership philosophy, which prioritises improved welfare and sound administration across the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the training by acquiring entrepreneurial and vocational skills that would enable them to establish sustainable businesses and alternative sources of income after active service.
The CDS was represented at the opening ceremony by the Director of Veterans Affairs, Major General O.D. Williams.
The Skill Acquisition Training for Veterans is one of the Defence Headquarters’ ongoing interventions designed to empower retired military personnel, strengthen their economic resilience and enhance their contribution to national development.
