Kehinde Fajobi
The Federal Government has commenced payment of pensions and other entitlements owed to retired military personnel, including three months’ arrears.
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, announced this on Thursday in Abuja through a statement issued by Henshaw Ogubike, the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence.
This development follows a protest earlier the same day, during which retired military personnel disrupted activities at the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja, demanding unpaid entitlements.
The protesters decried the government’s delay in fulfilling its promise of a 20% to 28% salary increment for the period from January to November 2024.
Their demands included payments for palliatives from October 2023 to November 2024, an additional ₦32,000 added to their pensions, bulk payment of the Security Debarment Allowance, and refunds of pension deductions from the salaries of medically boarded soldiers.
Matawalle confirmed that payments for military salary increases had commenced, with some retirees already receiving payment alerts.
He stated: “President Bola Tinubu released funds for the payment of pension and other entitlements owed to retired military personnel on Thursday.”
The minister praised President Tinubu for his commitment to the welfare of military personnel, both serving and retired.
He assured retirees that pension arrears would continue to be a priority, reflecting the administration’s dedication to improving the living standards of those who have served the nation.
Matawalle also acknowledged the contributions of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, for his efforts in ensuring the payments were actualised.
He urged military personnel to remain resolute in their duties, emphasising the President’s determination to support the armed forces in their fight against insecurity.
“In spite of initial setbacks, be rest assured that Mr President will do everything within his power to uplift our military forces as they confront the challenges of insecurity,” Matawalle said.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for taking decisive action and highlighted the critical role of both serving and retired military personnel in safeguarding the nation.
He reassured them of the President’s unwavering resolve to address security challenges and support the military’s readiness and resilience.