Heavy security measures have been put in place around Nigeria’s Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja due to protests by retired military personnel. These veterans are demonstrating against the lack of pension adjustments that should align with the recent salary increases for active military officers.
The protest is organized by retired Colonel Azubuike Nas representing the Military Veterans Association of Nigeria. In response, security forces, including the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, Vehicle Inspection Officers, and other agencies, are deployed extensively around the ministry and its vicinity to prevent any disruptions.
The retired military members are demanding inclusion in the pension adjustments following President Bola Tinubu’s recent approval of a new salary structure for active-duty military personnel. They argue that their long years of service deserve recognition through corresponding pension improvements.
Some veterans mentioned serving for 35 years or more and insist that such commitment should be compensated with appropriate pension adjustments.
President Tinubu’s approval for an upgraded salary framework for active military personnel aims to enhance their welfare and effectiveness, particularly in addressing security challenges across Nigeria.
Consequently, armed forces have been positioned around the Defence Headquarters, and security is tightened along major roads leading to the area. This heightened security has created significant traffic congestion around Abuja’s city center, impacting drivers with delays and gridlock.
The protest by veterans highlights increasing demands for better welfare and pension conditions for Nigeria’s retired armed forces members.
