The Nigerian Legion has appealed to retired military personnel protesting in Abuja over pension adjustments and outstanding entitlements to remain calm and give dialogue a chance as the Federal Government works to address their concerns.

The National Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Morenike Grace Henry, made the appeal after the veterans suspended their public protest.

Henry commended the retirees for their peaceful conduct and urged them to remain patient, saying the Legion understands the economic difficulties and concerns surrounding their welfare.

“I write to you today, commending your matured and peaceful conduct and the decision to call off the public protest and I strongly appeal to all veterans to remain patient with the Federal Government. While the Nigerian Legion fully understands the economic challenges and anxiety surrounding your welfare, we must choose dialogue over public protest”

She said the Federal Government had assured veterans that outstanding entitlements and approved pension increases would be paid.

“Federal Government has given its firm assurance that all outstanding entitlements and the approved pension increases will be fully paid. The Federal Government holds veterans in the highest esteem. The state treats our overall welfare as a matter of national priority.”

Henry also reminded veterans that their sacrifices for the country had not been forgotten, adding that efforts were ongoing to resolve administrative processes and settle outstanding benefits.

“You have sacrificed your youth for the peace of this nation, and that sacrifice is not forgotten. Please be assured that behind the scenes the Federal Government is actively working to resolve all administrative processes and ensure that every single entitlement due to our veterans is cleared.”

On healthcare, she said the government was also paying attention to the needs of veterans, particularly those living with injuries sustained during their service.

“In addition to financial entitlements, the government is prioritizing the health of our heroes.”

She added that the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Legion were pursuing partnerships and international support to improve healthcare for war-wounded veterans.

The Legion is also working on interventions that would provide prosthetic limbs, hearing aids, corrective eye surgeries, wheelchairs and other mobility aids to veterans in need.

Henry urged the retirees to remain disciplined and law-abiding, warning them against allowing their community to be used by individuals seeking to cause civil unrest.

“change and relief are on the way.”

She thanked the veterans for their continued loyalty, dedication and patience.

“God bless the Nigerian Veteran!
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!”