Neglecting Retired Military Personnel Poses Risk to Nigeria, Warns NDA Alumni

• Nigerian Defence Academy alumni express concerns about the neglect of retired armed forces personnel and call for a review of pension laws
• Retired air commodore Emmanuel Golit urges authorities to recognize and utilize the skills and experience of retired military officers

Concerns have been raised by members of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), particularly those from the 35 Regular Course, regarding the neglect of retired armed forces personnel by the federal government and military authorities.

At the 40th-anniversary event in Abuja over the weekend, the alumni emphasized the potential dangers of overlooking the welfare of retired security personnel, urging an immediate review of the Armed Forces Pension Act. Emmanuel Golit, a retired air commodore and the immediate past president of the association, stressed the importance of enhancing the well-being of retired security personnel to prevent them from becoming vulnerable tools in the hands of criminal groups due to economic hardship.

Golit highlighted that globally, retirees often contribute to various forms of government services after their active service, and he called for a similar approach in Nigeria. He underscored the significant skills and experience possessed by retired military officers, urging authorities to recognize and tap into this valuable resource for the benefit of the nation.

Various groups of retired military officers, including the Coalition for Concerned Veterans and the Civil War Veterans, have consistently advocated for improved welfare, emphasizing the need for timely payment of pensions and gratuities.

Danladi Bausa, the newly elected president of the association and a retired air commodore, commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, for their efforts in addressing the welfare concerns of retirees. While acknowledging positive steps taken, Bausa reiterated the importance of sustained and comprehensive measures to ensure the well-being of retired military personnel, recognizing their continued potential contribution to national development.