President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Grace Henry as the new Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, making her the first woman ever to lead the country’s top veterans’ organisation.
The news was shared in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by Chief Abdul Lauya, who is the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Digital Communications to the Council’s Chairman.
Lauya noted that the appointment is not only historic because Ms. Henry is the first female to take on the role, but also because she is the first non-commissioned officer to rise to the leadership position of the Nigerian Legion.
Her appointment became effective from June 7, as stated in an official letter signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Born on October 5, 1964, Grace Henry has a long history of service to the country. She served in the Nigerian Army and retired in the year 2000 after 25 years of active duty. Before her new appointment, she was the Director of Corporate Affairs at the Nigerian Legion headquarters in Abuja. She is also known for her work as the National Coordinator of the Female Military Veterans of Nigeria.
Henry now replaces retired Major General AbdulMalik Jibrin. Many view her appointment as a strong move by the Federal Government to encourage equal opportunities for women within the military veterans’ circle.
President Tinubu, according to the statement, noted that he trusts Henry’s leadership skills and has asked her to use her knowledge and experience to uplift and restructure the Nigerian Legion. The organisation has long served as a pillar for former servicemen and women in the country.
Lauya explained that with Henry’s appointment, the Legion is expected to go through major changes, especially as more voices demand improvements in the welfare of veterans and in how the organisation operates.
He explained that the Nigerian Legion plays a crucial role in looking after the wellbeing of ex-soldiers and their families. Its work includes rehabilitation, reintegration into society, and helping former soldiers become financially independent. The Legion also works to promote patriotism and unity, particularly through public events like Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
In addition, the organisation is involved in providing security services, raising public awareness, and working with government bodies and civil society to support the honour and dignity of military veterans.
Meanwhile, Ms. Henry has reacted to media reports that described her as one of the most powerful non-commissioned veterans. Lauya noted that she completely distances herself from such claims.
“She wishes to make it categorically clear that leadership is not about grandstanding or media manipulation,” the statement said.
Henry stated that under her leadership, there will be no such idea as anyone being more powerful than others. She said the Legion is a united body that looks after the needs of all Nigerian veterans, both commissioned and non-commissioned.
She also called out attempts to divide the organisation by creating false groups or ranks within the veterans’ community. According to her, the Legion stands for unity, honesty, and service—not personal gain or public show.
Finally, she urged both the public and the media to ignore any unverified stories that may try to twist the goals or image of her office. “Ms Grace Morenike Henry belongs to everyone, and to no one in particular. She serves all Nigerian veterans without bias or affiliation,” Lauya added.
