The Federal Government has commenced payment of pensions and other entitlements owed to retired military personnel, including three months’ arrears, Apples Bite Magazine can exclusively confirm.
Col. Nass (rtd) Innocent Azubuike, coordinator of the Coalition of Military Pensioners, revealed in an exclusive conversation that the protests by retired officers ended on Wednesday following assurances from the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board (C-MPB).
“The Chairman confirmed that 50% of our outstanding entitlements had been released, and credit alerts started coming in within hours. The remaining balance is expected within a month,” Col. Azubuike stated.
The Coordinating Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, also addressed the protesting veterans, apologizing for the delays and assuring them of prompt payment of arrears.
Protests Halted as Payments Begin
On Wednesday, military retirees, frustrated by the government’s failure to pay outstanding entitlements, staged protests that disrupted activities at the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja.
Their demands included:
- Payment of the promised 20% to 28% salary increment from January to November 2024.
- Release of palliatives from October 2023 to November 2024.
- Addition of ₦32,000 to their pensions.
- Bulk payment of the Security Debarment Allowance.
- Refund of pension deductions from medically boarded soldiers.
Government’s Response and Assurance
Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, confirmed in a statement issued by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations, that payments have begun.
“President Bola Tinubu approved the release of funds for the payment of pensions and entitlements owed to retired military personnel,” the statement read.
Matawalle lauded the President for prioritizing the welfare of both serving and retired military personnel, emphasizing that pension arrears and other entitlements would continue to receive critical attention.
He also praised the support of Mr. Wale Edun, describing him as instrumental in expediting the payments.
President Tinubu’s Commitment to the Military
Matawalle reassured military personnel of the President’s dedication to their welfare and urged them to remain steadfast in their duties.
“Despite initial setbacks, be assured that Mr. President will continue to do everything possible to uplift our military forces as they confront security challenges,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the military for their sacrifices, emphasizing their vital role in ensuring national security and combating insurgency.
The Federal Government’s payment initiative signals a step towards addressing long-standing grievances of retired military officers while reaffirming its commitment to improving the lives of those who have served the nation.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
