The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will soon commence a structured and lawful withdrawal of service firearms from retiring officers and airmen.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, disclosed this during a parley with Nigerian Air Force veterans at the NAF Base, Abuja, where he explained that the initiative is part of efforts to strengthen weapons accountability, enhance public safety, and align veteran administration with international best practices.
Aneke explained that the initiative would ensure all service-issued weapons are properly accounted for at retirement, while the Service also explores a regulated armoury framework that could allow eligible retirees to lawfully possess approved firearm calibres for personal protection.
Represented at the event by the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Anthony Martins, the CAS said the ongoing efforts were particularly focused on retrieving weapons from retiring personnel, including senior citizens, to reduce risks associated with misuse, diversion or improper storage.
“The Nigerian Air Force recognises the distinguished service of its veterans; however, service weapons remain government property and must be duly accounted for at retirement in line with extant laws,” he said.
He stressed that the exercise was not punitive but an administrative necessity aimed at ensuring compliance with the Firearms Act, while safeguarding both retired personnel and the wider society. According to him, clear modalities are being developed to guarantee transparency, regulation and full compliance with national firearms laws before implementation.
The CAS noted that the firearm withdrawal policy forms part of broader reforms in veteran administration, including plans to establish Veteran Well-Being Centres across the country. He said the centres would function as one-stop hubs for welfare support, documentation, security-related issues and healthcare coordination for retired personnel.
He added that the Air Force is leveraging digital platforms and dedicated help desks to improve communication and service delivery, especially for elderly veterans. Reassuring participants, Aneke said the safety and dignity of veterans remain paramount, with the NAF committed to balancing welfare needs with national security imperatives.
The CAS also underscored the importance of health and wellness in post-service life, describing it as a critical pillar of veteran welfare and sustainable reintegration.
In a presentation, Dr Ugochukwutuberem Nnamdi, a public health practitioner from the 063 Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Abuja, said health extends beyond physical fitness to include mental and social well-being. He noted that transitioning from military to civilian life often comes with emotional and psychological challenges, urging veterans to adopt healthy lifestyles and seek timely medical care.
The parley offered an interactive platform for veterans to share concerns and make recommendations on welfare, security and post-service integration.
