The federal government said all arrangements have been made to engage military veterans for community policing with a view to reclaiming ungoverned spaces where the terrorists and bandits are hibernating.

It revealed that the retired officers would be absorbed under a new initiative tagged: “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P)”.

The Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, disclosed this to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday at a press briefing to mark the formal commencement of activities for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Celebration.

Badaru said the programme is strategically designed to leverage the expertise of retired, agile military veterans to restore security and promote economic development in previously insurgent-occupied areas.

“Engaging veterans to reinforce local security and initiate projects like farming and mining, under RUSEB-P, will prevent the resurgence of terrorism, revitalize local economies, and strengthen national security and cohesion,” he said.

He said a dedicated committee is currently finalising the implementation framework.

According to him, the strategic vision extends beyond immediate support, encompassing the long-term, impactful engagement of seasoned veterans.

“To this end, the ministry is developing a critical new initiative named the “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P),” he said.

Badaru said the ministry was also introducing the “Thank A Soldier” QR Code, a digital initiative that enables Nigerians at home and abroad to send personalized messages of appreciation and encouragement to serving troops and pay tributes to the fallen.

He called on Nigerians to honour gallant men and women who embody valour, discipline and unity, which are the very pillars of our democracy and symbols of our sovereignty.

The minister said troops within the administration of Tinubu have neutralized over 13,000 terrorists and criminals, arrested more than 17,000 and rescued nearly 10,000 hostages and destroyed 1,900 illegal refining sites.

He said over 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants and their families have surrendered.

According to him, the successful operations led to the dismantling of key terrorist enclaves, the neutralisation of notorious bandit commanders and the restoration of peace to hundreds of communities, allowing displaced persons to return home.

Badaru said the government was also strengthening support for veterans through digital innovation, including the establishment of a “Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre.

He also revealed plans to review the Nigerian Legion Act, seeking to rename it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN), adding that the reform will strengthen the legal framework for veterans’ benefits and reintegration programmes. (Daily Trust)