Civil war veteran, Col. Nasiru Salami (retd), has openly criticized the treatment of Nigerian Army retirees by military authorities, highlighting his dissatisfaction during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on January 15, 2025.
Retired Colonel Nasiru Salami, a 76-year-old Nigerian war veteran , has spoken out about the neglect and poor treatment of military retirees by the Nigerian Army. Appearing on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief during the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day on January 15, Salami expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises and the lack of adequate support for veterans.
Salami, who joined the Nigerian Army in October 1967 and served for 11 months during the Civil War, recounted his post-retirement struggles. Despite assurances of war bonuses and other benefits, he and many other veterans have yet to receive these entitlements, even after more than 50 years.
“We are asking for a war bonus, those of us who fought the war. I retired in December 1983, and they promised us heaven and earth that they would give us our war bonus, but up till now, we have not seen it,” Salami lamented.
In addition to the war bonus, Salami highlighted issues with unpaid pensions and other post-retirement benefits. He called on the government to fulfill its promises and improve the welfare of veterans.
A Personal Stance Against Military Service
Citing his personal experiences and the neglect faced by retirees, Salami stated that he would not encourage any of his children to join the Nigerian Army.
“For now, I will never recommend any of my children to join the Nigerian Army,” he declared during the interview.
Echoes of Other Veterans’ Plight
Salami’s grievances are not isolated. Many other Nigerian veterans have raised similar concerns. For instance, Alhaji Rafiu Bello, an 81-year-old war veteran, revealed in January 2024 that he had not received his pension for 45 years. His story highlights the systemic neglect of those who once served the nation.
Nigerian Army’s Efforts and Shortcomings
In response to criticisms, the Nigerian Army has initiated welfare programs. For instance, in January 2024, the Army organized a scholarship screening for children of deceased personnel, aiming to support their education. While such efforts are commendable, they fall short of addressing the broader issues affecting retirees.
A Call for Action
Veterans like Salami continue to advocate for comprehensive measures to address the challenges they face. They urge the government to honor its commitments, provide adequate support, and ensure that those who risked their lives for the nation receive the recognition and benefits they deserve.
As Nigeria commemorates its Armed Forces, the plight of its veterans remains a pressing issue, demanding both national attention and immediate action.
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