Retired soldiers threaten protest over disputed pension formula

Retired military personnel affiliated with the Coalition of Concerned Veterans have threatened to organize a peaceful protest at the Military Pensions Board in Abuja on October 15, 2026, over disagreements surrounding the pension adjustment formula and reported delays in settling outstanding entitlements. The coalition, comprising multiple veterans' associations, intends to mobilize retired military personnel across Nigeria for the demonstration if the Military Pensions Board fails to address their concerns prior to the scheduled date.

Addressed to the Military Pensions Board's Chairman, Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, a letter obtained by PUNCH Online on October 11, 2026, demands a review of the pension computation formula, an audit of affected payments, recalculation of pensions where discrepancies are identified, and payment of outstanding arrears. The letter, signed by the coalition's Director, Blessing Alabala, was also sent to the Ministers of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes, and Wages Commission.

Alabala highlighted the coalition's concerns over reports indicating that the methodology applied to retired military personnel's pensions differs from the percentage increases approved for serving personnel under recent salary adjustments. These discrepancies have raised concerns among retired military personnel, particularly in light of the hardships faced in 2024 due to delays in implementing approved increments and settling outstanding entitlements, which led to dissatisfaction and protests among pensioners.

The coalition stated that the reported salary increases during the cited period were 80% for personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant, 50% for those from Warrant Officer to Colonel, and 30% for personnel above the rank of Colonel. The pension adjustment formula reportedly being applied, as confirmed by the MPB chairman at a consultative meeting on October 9, is based on years of service and rank.

This methodology comprises 40% for 10 years of service, an additional 2% for each additional year of service, a maximum of 90% for 35 years of service, and 100% for Major-General and equivalent ranks and above. The veterans argue that the methodology may result in outcomes differing from those expected under applicable approvals and implementation directives.

They seek authoritative clarification regarding the relationship between reported salary increases and consequential pension adjustments, as well as documentary evidence to verify whether the formula being applied aligns with the approval of President Bola Tinubu and relevant implementation directives. The coalition also questioned the basis for applying the service-year formula to the 2026 adjustment, inquiring whether the same methodology was used for the 2024 increment.

Furthermore, the veterans demand a comprehensive review of pension computations affected by the disputed formula, ensuring that any established errors, inconsistencies, or underpayments are rectified. They also request the Military Pensions Board to communicate the amounts owed to affected pensioners, explain the computation methodology, provide a clear payment schedule for verified arrears, publish applicable pension computation guidelines, establish a transparent complaints procedure for pensioners disputing their payments, and hold an urgent consultative meeting with recognized veterans' representatives.

While the coalition prefers resolution through dialogue, the planned protest remains as a contingency should their concerns remain unresolved.