The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has stated that it is seeking the support of military veterans to tackle insecurity in the country in order to reclaim ungoverned spaces from terrorists and bandits.
This was made known on Wednesday at a press briefing by the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, stating that the veterans will be engaged under a new program titled “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P).”
He said, “By engaging veterans to reinforce local security and initiate projects like farming and mining, RUSEB-P will prevent the resurgence of terrorism, revitalize local economies, and strengthen national security and cohesion.
“To this end, the Ministry is developing a critical new initiative named the ‘Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P).”
The minister also disclosed the launching of the “Thank A Soldier” QR code, which is a digital initiative that allows Nigerians both home and abroad to send messages of appreciation and encouragement to serving troops and the families of fallen heroes.
Badaru noted that this was part of activities of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) with the theme: “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes.”
He added that the celebration offered a significant opportunity to strengthen military-civilian relationships.
Other activities to mark the remembrance day include the National Emblem Appeal Launch by President Bola Tinubu scheduled for Nov. 27, interfaith services, a national symposium, and the wreath-laying ceremony on Jan. 15, 2026, amongst others.