The Ex-Service Men and Families Welfare Association of Nigeria staged a protest on Wednesday at the Federal Ministry of Finance, demanding the payment of long-overdue benefits under President Tinubu.
The veterans claim their entitlements, including the Security Debarment Allowance (SDA), have been withheld for over a decade.
Anthony Abbas, President of the Association, appealed to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, to prioritize the release of these funds. According to him, the SDA, which constitutes 10% of a retiree’s annual basic salary multiplied by the years of service, has been owed since 2011.
Abbas outlined the association’s demands, stating:
- Payment of palliatives and arrears from October 2023 to November 2024.
- Settlement of a 20–28% salary increment, along with arrears from January to November 2024.
- Release of N32,000 and its arrears from July to November 2024.
- Payment of the new national minimum wage increment and arrears from July to November 2024.
- Full settlement of the Security Debarment Allowance using the 2011 template.
- Refund of deductions made from medically discharged soldiers.
He emphasized the sacrifices made by the veterans, citing their efforts during the Nigerian Civil War and their role in preventing terrorist takeovers in critical regions, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
“We, the military veterans, are patriotic citizens who have dedicated our lives to this country’s unity and safety,” Abbas said, adding that many comrades had paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
The association’s plea underscores the pressing need for the government to address the welfare of its veterans, acknowledging their service and sacrifices.
