In a significant move to bolster the welfare of military families, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced plans to provide soft loans to spouses of serving personnel. The initiative, which has received presidential approval, aims to offer financial support at highly reduced interest rates.
Presidential Backing for Family Support
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, revealed the new scheme during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) Social Night. The special event, organized by the DHQ, honoured both serving officers and veterans while paying tribute to fallen heroes.
General Oluyede disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given his official approval for the loan programme. The CDS explained that the initiative is designed to support viable business ventures, promote stability within military families, and guarantee long-term livelihoods for those who stand behind the nation's defenders.
Recognizing the "Silent Heroes"
The Defence Chief paid special tribute to military families, describing them as the "silent heroes" whose patience, prayers, and continual sacrifices help sustain the morale and fighting spirit of the Armed Forces. He emphasized that the loan scheme is part of a broader commitment to the wellbeing of those connected to military service.
Beyond immediate financial support, Oluyede noted that ongoing engagements are focused on expanding access to housing loans. This effort is meant to complement existing Service housing schemes with a clear objective: ensuring that personnel can retire with personal homes, sustainable income sources, and a genuine sense of fulfilment after years of dedicated national service.
Commitment to Retired Personnel
The Defence Headquarters also expressed deep concern for the welfare of retired officers and men, particularly regarding the challenge of sustainable engagement after leaving active service. Drawing inspiration from the world of football, General Oluyede reassured troops using the famous Liverpool Football Club motto, "You'll Never Walk Alone."
He stressed that the Armed Forces leadership remains steadfast in its commitment to stand by all serving and retired personnel. The CDS commended troops for their resilience, courage, and professionalism across all theatres of operation, from the northern savannahs to the southern creeks and Nigeria's airspace.
A Night of Reflection and Celebration
The Chief of Defence Administration (CDA), Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, described the Social Night as a deliberate and special gathering designed to give personnel an opportunity to unwind, reflect, and celebrate. He noted that the occasion also provided a solemn moment to honour and remember fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in defence of Nigeria, emphasizing that their sacrifices remain a timeless source of inspiration.
The high-profile event saw attendance from top military brass, including:
- Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu
- Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas
- Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke
- Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye
The Social Night formed a key part of the activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, highlighting the military's dual focus on honouring the past while securing a better future for the families of those who serve.
