President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Morenike Grace Henry (JP) as the new Chairman of the National Council of the Nigerian Legion, marking the first time a woman will occupy the position.
Her appointment is a significant milestone for women’s representation in national service and a boost to the Tinubu administration’s commitment to affirmative action.
According to a statement by the Federal Ministry of Information, Henry’s elevation is not only historic for gender inclusion but also notable as she is the first non-commissioned officer to hold the role.
A veteran of the Nigerian Army, she began her career as a dental nurse and served for over 25 years before retiring in 2000. She later became the Director of Corporate Affairs at the Legion’s National Headquarters and is the pioneer and national coordinator of the Female Military Veterans Association (FMVA).
Born on October 5, 1964 Henry is also the founder and CEO of Hengramore Care Home, a humanitarian initiative supporting vulnerable veterans, women, and children. She has been instrumental in forging international partnerships for the Nigerian Legion with veteran organisations in the UK, US, and Canada.
Her appointment was confirmed in a letter from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and she officially assumed office on June 7, 2025. President Tinubu lauded her leadership and urged her to reinvigorate the Legion’s mandate of supporting retired service members and families of fallen heroes. Her appointment is seen as a bold step toward inclusive and effective veteran welfare reform.
