Nigerian Military Engages Veterans to Tackle Insecurity

The Nigerian military, under the leadership of Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, has unveiled a plan to engage veterans in efforts to combat rising insecurity across the country. This initiative includes a media conflict resolution skill training program for retired members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with the REMENAF organization.

The training, which will take place in Abuja, aims to equip veterans with modern skills in conflict resolution and negotiation. General Oluyede emphasized that military operations alone cannot guarantee lasting peace and highlighted the importance of early intervention and dialogue in preventing violence.

The initiative reflects a strategic shift towards strengthening non-kinetic approaches to address Nigeria's evolving security challenges, particularly those driven by local disputes and community tensions. Veterans, with their experience and discipline, are seen as credible actors in promoting dialogue and restraint at the grassroots level.

The program is expected to enhance grassroots mediation capacity and contribute to national efforts to reduce violent conflict.