Odita Sunday 
Defence Ministry Assures Military Veterans of Action on Pension, Welfare Concerns
By Odita Sunday
The Federal Government has assured military veterans that their concerns over welfare, remuneration and pension adjustments are receiving urgent attention, with the Ministry of Defence pledging sustained engagement towards a fair and sustainable resolution.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, gave the assurance on Wednesday through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, during a courtesy visit by representatives of military veterans to Ship House, Abuja.
General Musa said the Federal Government remained committed to the welfare of military veterans, acknowledging their immense sacrifices and distinguished service to the nation.
According to him, issues relating to wage and pension adjustments are being addressed in consultation with relevant military, pension and financial authorities to ensure that the concerns of veterans are resolved without unfairly disadvantaging them.
The Minister appealed to the veterans to remain calm and patient, urging them to sustain constructive engagement with the authorities.
He said continued dialogue remained the most effective approach to resolving outstanding concerns while preserving the dignity, honour and mutual respect owed to those who had served the country.
General Musa further explained that any adjustment to veterans’ entitlements must be properly computed, adequately funded and implemented in line with extant approvals, regulations and due process.
He said adherence to these requirements was necessary to guarantee sustainability and prevent unintended disparities in the implementation of any approved adjustments.
The Minister assured the veterans that the Ministry of Defence would continue to engage their representatives and provide appropriate updates as progress was made on the issues raised.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s appreciation of the patriotism, courage and sacrifices of Nigeria’s military veterans, stressing that their service to the nation must be recognised not only in words but through sustained attention to their welfare and legitimate entitlements.
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