The Nigerian Air Force has announced plans to properly account for and retrieve service weapons from retired personnel, in line with the provisions of the Firearms Act.
According to the service, the move is part of ongoing efforts to address personal security concerns of senior veterans while ensuring compliance with extant laws governing the possession of firearms.
This was disclosed during the Chief of the Air Staff parley with Nigerian Air Force veterans in Abuja on Saturday, where the CAS, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, was represented by the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Anthony Martins.
Aneke also revealed that modalities are being explored for the establishment of a regulated armoury system, adding that under the proposed arrangement, eligible retired personnel may be allowed to lawfully possess approved calibres, subject to existing regulations.
“On the issue of personal security, the Nigerian Air Force remains mindful of the peculiar concerns of our senior veterans. While respecting the provisions of the Firearms Act, efforts are ongoing to properly account for and retrieve service weapons where necessary.
“Additionally, modalities are being explored for the establishment of a regulated armoury system, which would allow eligible retired personnel to lawfully possess approved calibres, in line with extant regulations,” he said.
The Air Force assured veterans that the process would be handled with due regard for their welfare and contributions to the service, noting that veteran engagement remains a priority for the current leadership.
“Veteran administration is capital-intensive, and we appreciate the valuable insights shared today, including international best practices such as the Australian model. It is important to note that the Nigerian Air Force remains at the forefront among the Services in institutionalising veteran engagement. Few organisations regularly convene their veterans in this structured and meaningful manner,” he added.
The parley also provided an opportunity for the NAF to brief veterans on other ongoing initiatives, including welfare reforms and youth empowerment programmes, while receiving feedback on veteran-related issues.
The discussions formed part of broader reforms aimed at improving veteran administration and strengthening compliance with national security regulations.