FG Moves to Deploy Veterans into Nigeria’s Ungoverned Spaces
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria’s Federal Government unveils plans to deploy retired military veterans into ungoverned spaces as part of a strategic shift to strengthen security and unlock economic activity in conflict-prone areas.
The initiative follows the inauguration of an 18-member committee by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), tasked with reclaiming areas beyond effective state control and repositioning the Nigerian Legion Corps of Commissionaires and Veterans.
The committee was inaugurated on Tuesday at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja, with the minister represented by Permanent Secretary Richard Pheelangwa.
Musa says the move reflects a transition from an overreliance on conventional military offensives to a more inclusive security model that integrates experienced veterans into community-level operations.
“Deliberate integration of veterans into security and development initiatives will improve intelligence gathering, enhance local ownership and foster trust between communities and the state,” Musa says.
According to the ministry, the committee’s mandate includes deploying veterans to secure ungoverned spaces, repositioning the Nigerian Legion for operational effectiveness and supporting veterans’ reintegration into national life.
Officials say the approach could ease pressure on overstretched frontline troops while addressing socio-economic drivers of insecurity.
Committee members are drawn from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Defence Intelligence Agency, Defence Headquarters and the Nigerian Legion.
Security analysts say the plan responds to growing calls for community-based solutions amid persistent banditry and rural insecurity.
If fully implemented, officials believe the initiative could significantly reduce criminal activity in remote areas and strengthen national stability.
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