The injustice in military benefits sparked outrage among retired soldiers when they discovered the lifetime perks awarded to sacked service chiefs. The veterans argued that while the top brass receive bulletproof SUVs, personal aides and lifetime medical care, many junior and non-commissioned officers wait years for basic entitlements.
They insisted the injustice in military benefits undermines trust and morale across the armed forces. One group of ex-soldiers stated that they sacrificed in dangerous conditions but received no comparable support on retirement.
Nigerian Military
They pointed to the policy signed on 14 December 2024 which entitles former service chiefs to bulletproof SUVs replaced every four years, a backup car, five domestic aides, personal drivers and guards, and lifetime health coverage abroad and at home.
Moreover, the disgruntled veterans claimed the lifetime benefits for top officers deepen the divide in their community. They noted that for many ordinary soldiers the system delayed pension payments, provided poor housing support and ignored medical needs.
One retired sergeant said he cannot understand how “the people at the top always do things to favor only themselves” and accused the government of neglecting lower-ranked troops.
In response, some advocacy groups called on the government and military leadership to review the entire benefits framework. They urged transparency and fairness so that all service members receive dignity in retirement, not only the elite.
The critics warned that unless the injustice in military benefits is addressed, further protests and unrest among veterans may follow. Many watchers say the issue reflects deeper fault lines in Nigeria’s defense and welfare systems.
