The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has confirmed that his ministry is investigating the altercation between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer, A. M. Yerima, over a disputed parcel of land in Abuja.
Speaking at a press briefing to flag off activities for the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the National Defence College, Abuja, Badaru assured that the Armed Forces would always protect personnel carrying out lawful duties.
He emphasized that officers acting within the law would be fully protected, adding that the ministry would not allow harm to come to any of them while performing their responsibilities.
The confrontation reportedly occurred on Tuesday when Wike visited the contested site and accused the military of unlawfully taking over land said to belong to a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo (retd.).
A video circulating online shows the visibly angry minister confronting armed personnel at the location.
Beyond addressing the incident, the Defence Minister also announced new initiatives aimed at improving military operations, veteran welfare, and national security.
He unveiled the Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme (RUSEB-P), designed to engage retired but physically fit veterans in securing and rehabilitating areas previously controlled by terrorists.
Badaru explained that by involving veterans in security operations and community projects such as farming and mining, the programme would prevent the resurgence of terrorism, revitalise local economies, and strengthen national cohesion.
He further introduced a “Thank A Soldier” QR Code, a digital platform that allows Nigerians at home and abroad to send personalised messages of appreciation to troops on the frontlines.
The minister highlighted notable achievements of the Armed Forces under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, stating that troops have neutralised thousands of terrorists and criminals, arrested several suspects, rescued numerous hostages, and dismantled hundreds of illegal refining sites.
He added that more than 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP members, including their families, have surrendered to security forces.
On veterans’ welfare, Badaru revealed ongoing efforts to establish a comprehensive Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre.
He also noted that 2,141 Civil War veterans previously excluded from pension benefits have now been enrolled. Plans are underway to amend the Nigerian Legion Act to rename it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN).
The minister disclosed that the Defence Health Maintenance Limited now provides healthcare coverage to over 400,000 enrollees, including 205,000 veterans and their families nationwide.
Badaru urged Nigerians to continue showing gratitude to both serving and fallen soldiers, describing them as embodiments of valour, discipline, and unity — the pillars of Nigeria’s democracy and sovereignty.
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