Discharged Nigerian soldiers reignited their demonstration at the Federal Ministry of Finance headquarters in Abuja to demand overdue entitlements, accusing the government of neglect following unfulfilled promises made last month.
The veterans resumed their advocacy after previously calling off protests in early August when reassurances were given that all outstanding payments would be settled by August 10. However, with no financial redress delivered, the ex-servicemen regrouped determinedly, showing an escalation in their campaign.
One protester identified as Mama G lamented that the reasons they are protesting was because the promises made to them were never fulfilled, they had no choice but to return to the streets and that this time around, the protest will be massive.
Among their grievances are unpaid palliatives and arrears dating from October 2023 through November 2024. Their dissent shows the frustrations with the administration of military pensions and welfare schemes in Nigeria.
The Defence Headquarters has responded by urging the veterans to vacate the Ministry of Finance premises, as it may lead to the disruption to government operations. Major General Markus Kangye clarified that the calculation of gratuity and Security Debarment Allowance (SDA) is based on salary charts effective at the retirement date. The recent policy adjustment to minimum wage, effective July 29, 2024, applies only to personnel retiring thereafter, not those who retired earlier in the year, leading to the current dispute.
The veterans’ movement shows the needs for reform in military pension administration and the issue of respect and fair treatment for Nigeria’s retired armed forces personnel.
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