ABUJA — A group of retired Nigerian Army soldiers staged a major protest today at the Ministry of Finance Headquarters in Abuja, demanding the payment of their outstanding entitlements and allowances.
The protest was led by the Voluntary Discharged Soldiers of the 1st and 2nd Quarters Retirees of the Nigerian Army. Many of them, dressed in military camouflage, blocked the entrance to the ministry’s building, preventing staff and officials from entering.
What Are They Demanding?
The retired soldiers say they are owed:
- Their gratuity (a one-time payment after retirement)
- Security Debarment Allowance (SDA)
- Parking allowance
- 43 months of withheld salaries
- Wage award palliative (relief) payments
They also criticized the Military Pensions Board for claiming that the retirees are not eligible for the new national minimum wage adjustment because they were disengaged as of July 1, 2024.
Why Are They Protesting?
One of the protesters, Sergeant Augustine Agommo (retired), said the way the government is treating them is “absurd, ridiculous, and unacceptable.” He explained that they have dedicated the best years of their lives to serving Nigeria, and now they are suffering along with their families while their rightful payments are being denied.
“We are living heroes and deserve to be recognized and treated right, not only celebrated when we die,” he told reporters.
Protest Disrupts Government Work
As of the time of reporting, official activities at the Ministry of Finance have been completely halted. The protesting veterans refused to leave the main gate, even after a senior military officer — an Air Vice Marshal — tried to persuade them to step aside for dialogue. They insisted that their demands must be met before any talks.
What’s Next?
Leaders of the protest group have been invited to a meeting with top officials of the ministry. Meanwhile, armed security operatives, including soldiers, have been deployed to maintain peace and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
So far, neither the Ministry of Finance nor the Military Pensions Board has released an official statement regarding the protest.
This development has caught national attention as it highlights the ongoing struggles of military veterans who feel abandoned after years of service. Many young Nigerians are watching to see how the government responds to the situation — and whether the sacrifices of those who served will truly be honored.
