Col. Nasiru Salami (retd.), a 76-year-old veteran of the Nigerian Civil War, has voiced his disappointment over the poor treatment of retired soldiers, vowing never to encourage his children to join the Nigerian Army.
Speaking during a segment on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief to mark the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Salami shared his experiences of hardship and neglect since his retirement in December 1983.
“For now, I will never recommend any of my children to join the Nigerian Army,” he declared. “They see my situation and expect me to be happier and more fulfilled. How can I encourage them to join the army when I’m not treated well?”
The retired colonel detailed the challenges faced by veterans, including unpaid war bonuses and pensions that have lingered for over five decades. “We fought in the war, and they promised us a bonus, but till today we haven’t received it,” he said.
Salami added that while he advises his children to explore careers in the Navy or Air Force, he cannot support them joining the army due to the poor welfare conditions.
Veterans’ frustrations recently escalated, with protests at the Ministry of Finance in Abuja over unpaid entitlements, including pension arrears and allowances. Retirees blocked access to the premises, demanding the government fulfill its promises and improve the welfare of ex-soldiers. Despite initial payments after earlier protests, veterans insist the government’s commitments remain unfulfilled.
