President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Ms. Grace Morenike Henry as the new Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion.
The appointment, effective June 7, 2025, marks the first time a woman and notably, a non-commissioned officer will lead the country’s foremost veterans’ organization.
The announcement was conveyed through an official letter signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Ms. Henry succeeds Maj. Gen. AbdulMalik Jibrin (rtd), bringing a new wave of leadership to the Legion at a time of growing national attention to the welfare of ex-servicemen and women.
Born on October 5, 1964, Ms. Henry served in the Nigerian Army until her retirement in 2000, with a service record spanning more than 25 years.
Her post-military career has been equally impactful. She most recently served as the Director of Corporate Affairs at the Legion’s national headquarters in Abuja, and currently holds the position of National Coordinator of Female Military Veterans of Nigeria, a role in which she has consistently advocated for increased visibility and support for women veterans.
Her appointment has been widely hailed as a bold and forward-looking decision by the Tinubu administration, underscoring its commitment to gender equality and institutional renewal.
The President, in his message of endorsement, expressed confidence in Ms. Henry’s ability to reposition the Nigerian Legion and enhance its relevance as a support structure for retired military personnel and their families.
“This appointment is not only well-deserved but symbolic of our administration’s commitment to inclusivity, reform, and improved welfare for all those who have served the nation,” the President reportedly stated.
The Nigerian Legion, established by law, serves as a statutory body responsible for advancing the welfare of ex-service members and their dependents.
Its mandate includes supporting the rehabilitation, reintegration, and economic empowerment of veterans, many of whom continue to face significant challenges after their service.
Ms. Henry’s emergence comes at a critical time for the Legion, as public discourse increasingly centers on the need for improved veteran welfare, institutional transparency, and expanded opportunities for retired military personnel.
Her leadership is expected to usher in a new era of transformation, advocacy, and strategic direction for the organization.
