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By Philip Nwosu
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to commence a structured withdrawal of service-issued firearms from retiring personnel as part of measures to strengthen weapons accountability and enhance public safety.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, disclosed the initiative during an interactive meeting with NAF veterans at the Air Force Base in Abuja.
Represented at the forum by the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Anthony Martins, the Air Chief explained that the policy is designed to align the Air Force with international best practices in veteran administration and arms control.
He stressed that the process would be carried out in a lawful and transparent manner, noting that the exercise is not intended as a punitive measure but as an administrative necessity.
According to him, the move is aimed at ensuring compliance with the Firearms Act and reducing risks associated with misuse, diversion, or improper storage of weapons, particularly among elderly retirees.
“Efforts are ongoing to properly account for and retrieve service-issued weapons where necessary, while respecting the provisions of the Firearms Act,” Air Marshal Aneke stated.
He further disclosed that the Air Force is exploring the possibility of establishing a regulated armoury system that would allow eligible retired personnel to lawfully possess approved firearm calibres for personal protection in line with existing regulations.
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The Chief of the Air Staff added that the firearms withdrawal policy forms part of broader reforms aimed at improving the welfare and administration of NAF veterans.
He announced plans to establish Veteran Well-Being Centres across the country to serve as one-stop hubs for welfare support, documentation, healthcare coordination and security-related matters for retired officers.
Aneke also revealed that the Air Force is deploying digital platforms and help desks to improve communication and service delivery to veterans, especially the elderly, while assuring them that their safety and dignity remain top priorities.
In his remarks, Dr. Ugochukwutuberem Nnamdi of the 063 Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Abuja, highlighted the health challenges often faced by personnel transitioning from military to civilian life.
He urged retirees to adopt healthy lifestyles and seek timely medical attention in order to maintain their wellbeing after service.
The interactive session provided an opportunity for veterans to raise concerns and offer recommendations on welfare, security and post-service reintegration.
The NAF leadership assured the retirees that their contributions to national security remain highly valued and that ongoing reforms are aimed at ensuring their continued wellbeing after active service.
