Nigeria's Defence Minister meets protesting military veterans, promises improved pension package

Retired military personnel in Nigeria staged a protest to demand a consequential adjustment to their pensions, arguing they were excluded from recent salary increases and that their 35 years of service were being met with neglect.

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their concerns are receiving attention they deserve.

The veterans gathered at the Ministry of Defence, attempting to voice their dissatisfaction but were initially intercepted by security personnel. They appealed for intervention from President Bola Tinubu and Defence Minister Christopher Musa, emphasizing their constitutional and legal rights to fair compensation and welfare.

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immense sacrifices and distinguished service

Minister Musa, represented by the ministry's permanent secretary Richard Pheelangwah, met with the veterans. He acknowledged their "immense sacrifices and distinguished service" and assured them that their concerns "are receiving the attention they deserve." The ministry described the meeting as a "courtesy visit" and stressed that veterans' welfare remains a government priority.

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remains a priority of the government.

Officials stated that the veterans' concerns are under "urgent attention," with relevant military, pension, and financial authorities engaged to find a "fair, sustainable and implementable resolution." The minister urged the retirees to remain calm and engage constructively, noting that any adjustments to entitlements require proper computation, funding, and adherence to due process to ensure sustainability and avoid disparities. The ministry committed to sustained engagement and providing updates on progress.

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are receiving urgent attention with relevant military, pension and financial authorities being engaged to achieve a fair, sustainable and implementable resolution that ensures veterans are not unfairly disadvantaged.