Retired soldiers from the Nigerian Army who disengaged in the 1st and 2nd quarters of 2023 staged a peaceful protest outside the Ministry of Finance in Abuja on Wednesday, demanding the immediate payment of their long-overdue entitlements.
Armed with placards, banners, and canopies, the ex-servicemen decried the federal government’s failure to pay their gratuities, Security Debarment Allowance (SDA) shortfalls, and packing allowances. Many of them held signs reading, “ENOUGH OF THE PROCRASTINATION!!” and “We Served, Now We Suffer.”
The soldiers, who voluntarily retired from service on February 15, 2024, said they have been waiting for months without any clear commitment from the authorities. Some shared distressing accounts of being evicted from military barracks without receiving the packing allowance meant to support their relocation.
“We gave our best years to this country, and now we are being treated like we don’t matter. It is heartbreaking,” one of the protesters said.
The group also demanded the immediate disbursement of the WASE Award — a palliative meant to ease the transition to civilian life — as well as the full settlement of their contributions under the MAWIS/BENTEND scheme for the 3rd and 4th quarters of 2023.
“We shouldn’t be out here begging for what is rightfully ours,” another banner stated, calling for bulk payment of the SDA.
This isn’t the first time the group has taken to the streets. In January, they shut down operations at the Finance Ministry, voicing similar grievances through music, chants, and placards.
Their complaints also include the non-payment of palliatives and arrears stretching from October 2023 to November 2024, and concerns over the introduction of a new payment template for SDA that disregards retirement dates. The group further urged the National Assembly to review and pass the VFN Bill in line with international standards for veterans’ welfare.
During an earlier protest, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, addressed the retired officers and assured them that 50% of their “20/28” and ₦320,000 minimum wage entitlements would be paid promptly, while other outstanding benefits would be resolved in due course.
“I salute your service and dedication. I am not pleased with your current condition, and I find it unsettling that you have had to endure this for so long,” Edun stated at the time.
Despite these assurances, the group returned on Wednesday, setting up chairs and barricading the entrance to the Ministry once again — citing the government’s failure to follow through on its promises.
