By Lanre Oloyede
In a landmark move towards supporting and empowering Nigeria’s wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and servicewomen, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, and the African Unconquered Foundation have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The agreement, signed at a brief ceremony in Abuja, underscores a shared commitment to honor, rehabilitate, and reintegrate veterans who have sacrificed for the country’s peace and security.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Hon. Abba Isa expressed that the MOU reflects a commitment to restoring dignity to wounded veterans and ensuring they are empowered to reintegrate into society.
“Many of these brave men and women have made immeasurable sacrifices to secure our nation’s peace and stability, often at great personal cost.
“This partnership is more than just an agreement—it’s a commitment to a framework that provides tangible support, resources, and opportunities for our veterans to rebuild their lives and achieve personal empowerment,” he said.
According to the Senior presidential aide, the MOU represents a significant step for the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities and aims to provide a holistic approach to veteran support.
The SSAP noted that this initiative will create job opportunities, welfare support services, and advocacy initiatives, along with resource-sharing frameworks and rigorous monitoring and evaluation.
He maintained that the overarching goal is to offer comprehensive support systems to wounded veterans, addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals for reintegration and self-sufficiency.
Hon. Abba Isa also took a moment to extend his gratitude to the African Unconquered Foundation, commending their dedication and commitment to the cause.
“The Foundation’s vision aligns powerfully with our mission, and together, we are creating pathways for veterans to reclaim their lives and thrive,” he noted.
“To the servicemen, servicewomen, and veterans here today, we honor you. This partnership is, above all, for you. It is our pledge that you will not stand alone; your sacrifices will be met with the respect and support you deserve,” he stressed.
Also speaking, Mr Derrick Cobbinah, the Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of the Africa Unconquered Foundation, stated that the Foundation is known for its impactful work across the continent and has been instrumental in supporting disadvantaged and marginalized communities, including veterans.
Mr. Cobbinah added that their partnership with the SSA’s office represents a strategic alliance designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by Nigeria’s wounded servicemen and women.
“This partnership is built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared purpose. Together, we will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have selflessly served our nation,” he said.
The ceremony concluded with representatives from both offices expressing optimism about the journey ahead, underscoring the importance of sustained collaboration to ensure that veterans receive the full support they need to transition back into civilian life.
As Nigeria continues to address the needs of its disabled and vulnerable populations, this MOU sets a powerful precedent for honoring and empowering those who have sacrificed so much for the country.
