The Federal Government has unveiled plans to deploy military veterans to help secure Nigeria’s vast ungoverned spaces as part of a broader strategy to strengthen national security and stimulate economic activities in conflict-affected areas across the country.
The initiative is aimed at leveraging the experience, discipline, and local knowledge of retired military personnel to support ongoing security operations, particularly in regions grappling with banditry, terrorism, and other forms of violent crime. According to government officials, the move will complement the efforts of active security agencies by improving surveillance, intelligence gathering, and community engagement in hard-to-reach areas.
Beyond security, the deployment is also expected to unlock economic potential in previously unsafe zones. By restoring confidence and stability, the government believes the presence of trained veterans will encourage farming, mining, trade, and infrastructure development, thereby creating jobs and improving livelihoods in affected communities.
Officials stressed that the veterans will operate under clearly defined rules of engagement and in collaboration with existing security formations and local authorities. The programme is also expected to provide meaningful post-service employment opportunities for ex-servicemen, while reinforcing Nigeria’s overall security architecture.
The Federal Government said further details on recruitment, training, and implementation timelines will be communicated in due course as the policy moves from planning to execution.