Nigeria Defence Minister assures veterans of government commitment to welfare

Nigeria's Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reiterated the Federal Government's dedication to improving the welfare, pay, and pensions of military veterans. The assurance came during a meeting with representatives of military veterans at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.

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concerns over wage and pension adjustments were receiving urgent attention.

Gen. Musa, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, acknowledged the significant sacrifices and service rendered by Nigeria's veterans. He emphasized that their well-being remains a top priority for the current administration. A statement from the ministry's Director of Information, Mr. H. O. Ogubike, indicated that issues concerning wage and pension adjustments are under urgent review.

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relevant military, pension and financial authorities were being engaged to find a fair, sustainable and implementable solution that would ensure veterans were not unfairly disadvantaged.

According to the minister, relevant military, pension, and financial authorities are actively collaborating to devise a fair, sustainable, and practical solution. This approach aims to prevent any disadvantage to the veterans. He appealed for calm and patience from the veterans, encouraging continued dialogue with the government.

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appealed to the veterans to remain calm and patient, while encouraging continued constructive engagement with the government.

Musa stressed that sustained engagement is the most effective method for resolving outstanding issues while upholding the dignity and respect owed to those who have served the nation. He further explained that any adjustments to veterans' entitlements must be meticulously calculated, sufficiently funded, and implemented in accordance with existing regulations and due process to ensure sustainability and prevent payment disparities. The Ministry of Defence pledged to keep veteran representatives informed of progress.

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sustained dialogue remained the most effective means of resolving outstanding concerns while preserving the dignity, honour and mutual respect due to those who had served the nation.