The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to properly account for and retrieve service weapons from retired personnel, in line with the Firearms Act.
The Air Force said the decision is part of ongoing efforts to balance the personal security needs of retired senior officers with compliance to existing laws regulating firearm possession in the country.
The plan was disclosed on Saturday in Abuja during a parley between the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) and Nigerian Air Force veterans. The CAS, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, was represented at the meeting by the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Anthony Martins.
Speaking at the event, Aneke explained that the NAF is exploring modalities to establish a regulated armoury system that would allow eligible retired personnel to lawfully possess approved calibres under strict guidelines.
“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,” he said.
He added that the proposed armoury arrangement would ensure that retired officers who qualify can access firearms legally, without compromising national security.
“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 added.
The Air Force assured veterans that the process would be handled with respect for their welfare and long years of service, noting that veteran engagement remains a key priority for the current leadership.
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Aneke also noted that veteran administration requires significant resources, adding that the service values feedback and insights shared during the meeting, including references to international best practices such as the Australian model.
“Veteran administration is capital-intensive, and we appreciate the valuable insights shared today. It is important to note that the Nigerian Air Force remains at the forefront among the Services in institutionalising veteran engagement,” he said.
The parley also served as an avenue to brief veterans on other ongoing initiatives, including welfare reforms and youth empowerment programmes, while also receiving feedback on issues affecting retired personnel.
The discussions, according to the Air Force, are part of broader reforms aimed at improving veteran administration and strengthening compliance with national security regulations.
