Retired Gen. Irabor Calls for Special Support for Wounded Veterans to Boost Armed Forces Morale
Retired Gen. Irabor Calls for Special Support for Wounded Veterans to Boost Armed Forces Morale
Retired Gen. Irabor Calls for Special Support for Wounded Veterans to Boost Armed Forces Morale
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
General Lucky Irabor, the former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has called for enhanced support for wounded and disabled military veterans, emphasizing that such measures would significantly boost the morale and effectiveness of personnel.
Irabor made the appeal during his lecture titled “Armed Forces Celebration and National Development” at the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2025 Lecture and Art Exhibition, held on Tuesday in Abuja.
The event, organized by the Defence Headquarters, is part of activities commemorating the 2025 Armed Forces Celebration.
Addressing the plight of servicemen and women injured in the line of duty, Irabor highlighted the emotional toll it takes on both active personnel and veterans.
“The plight of wounded or disabled servicemen and women is a heartbreaking tale that lingers in the minds of all. This could demoralize serving personnel and even push veterans into depression, leading to regrets over their patriotic service,” Irabor said.
“To address this, he advocated for the completion and proper equipping of ongoing projects like the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) facility and the Invictus Games initiative, stressing their potential to transform the care of injured personnel.
“These projects, when fully furnished and publicized, will not only benefit the Armed Forces but also enhance the perception of the Federal Government as a grateful entity towards those who serve the nation,” he added.
Irabor also emphasized the need for a comprehensive healthcare program for veterans, noting that current provisions are inadequate. He explained that rising inflation erodes the value of monetary entitlements, leaving veterans struggling to meet healthcare needs.
“The Defence Healthcare Insurance policy lacks comprehensiveness, with many medical conditions not covered. A special-purpose healthcare vehicle for veterans is imperative to address this challenge,” he urged.
Irabor also proposed the institution of programs to foster a culture of gratitude among citizens toward service personnel and called for prompt payment of entitlements to both active and retired personnel.
“Delays in entitlements lead to veterans’ protests and create resentment among active-duty personnel who witness the poor treatment of their predecessors,” he warned.
The retired general further advocated for affordable housing schemes and support foundations for veterans with special needs.
In his closing remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, expressed gratitude to Irabor and other former defence chiefs for their insights. He pledged to ensure the efficient use of military funds and work tirelessly to restore peace across Nigeria.
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The Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2025 highlights the enduring sacrifices of military personnel, with calls for improved welfare and public recognition of their contributions to national development.
Retired Gen. Irabor Calls for Special Support for Wounded Veterans to Boost Armed Forces Morale
