On Thursday, December 5, 2024, retired military personnel staged a significant protest at the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja, Nigeria, to demand the payment of outstanding entitlements. The retirees, armed with sleeping mats, chairs, and canopies, expressed frustration over the government’s failure to settle long-standing arrears, including salary increments of 20% to 28% from January to November 2024 and other allowances.
The protesters also highlighted demands such as:
- Payment of palliatives owed from October 2023 to November 2024.
- An additional ₦32,000 added to their pensions.
- Bulk payment of the Security Debarment Allowance (SDA).
- A refund of pension deductions for medically boarded soldiers.
Col. Innocent Azubuike (rtd.), a leader of the group, lamented the severe hardship the delays have caused many retirees. Despite assurances that payments would be made in November 2024, the government cited a lack of cash backing for the delay. Azubuike noted the systemic inefficiencies and broken promises, which have left many veterans unable to meet basic needs like food and medical care.
The Military Pensions Board acknowledged funding limitations but emphasized its efforts to secure allocations and clear arrears. However, protests such as this one highlight a deeper issue in the administration of military pensions. The Security Debarment Allowance, introduced in 2017, has particularly been a point of contention, with many retirees excluded due to their dates of retirement. Though ₦134.7 billion was approved in 2022 to settle some arrears, delays and partial payments persist.
The protesting retirees vowed not to leave the ministry premises until their demands were met. They have called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the pension sector and settle all liabilities by December 16, 2024. This protest adds to a history of nationwide demonstrations by pensioners demanding accountability and financial relief.
This incident underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms in Nigeria’s pension administration to ensure the dignity and welfare of its retired military personnel.
