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FG moves to boost security, veterans’ welfare

Abuja: The Federal Government has inaugurated three strategic technical committees to strengthen the national security architecture and improve veterans’ welfare.

The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, inaugurated the committees on Wednesday at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

This is contained in a statement by the Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Enderline Chukwu, on Wednesday in Abuja

The committees are the Technical Committee on Integrated Border Security System, the Defence Sector Capital Requirements Plan Committee, and the Committee on Veterans Welfare and Institutional Reform.

The Minister said that the initiative reflected the federal government’s commitment to translating defence policies into actionable implementation in addressing critical security and institutional challenges.

He also said that the move was part of deliberate efforts to enhance operational readiness, strengthen coordination among security agencies, and ensure proper welfare and recognition for military veterans.

According to him, Nigeria’s extensive land and maritime borders require a smart, intelligence-driven, and technology-enabled security approach capable of ensuring real-time information sharing and effective inter-agency collaboration.

He tasked the Technical Committee on Integrated Border Security System to conduct a comprehensive review of existing frameworks, identify operational gaps, and recommend an integrated solution that enhances interoperability and response capability.

On defence planning and procurement, the minister said the Defence Sector Capital Requirements Plan Committee was expected to develop a realistic, prioritised, and costed 5–10 year capital investment framework that aligned with national security objectives and fiscal realities.

He added that the committee would also assess existing infrastructure, identify capability gaps, and project future requirements in line with emerging threats and technological advancements.

Musa emphasised the need for improved welfare for veterans, noting that the Committee on Veterans Welfare and Institutional Reform would focus on strengthening welfare systems.

He said that the committee would also focus on improving access to support services, and developing a standardised national dress code for veterans.

According to him, the initiative is aimed at promoting dignity, uniformity, and institutional recognition while aligning with global best practices and Nigeria’s military heritage.

The minister charged members of the committees to discharge their assignments with professionalism, diligence, transparency, and accountability, stressing the importance of stakeholder engagement and value-for-money outcomes.

He added that the committees were expected to submit comprehensive reports, including actionable recommendations and implementation roadmaps, within one month.

Musa assured them of the ministry’s full support in carrying out their mandates.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, commended the minister’s leadership and commitment to strengthening national security and improving personnel welfare.

He urged the committees to see their assignments as call to national service and execute them with patriotism and dedication.