Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), has assured that concerns relating to veterans wage and pension adjustments are receiving urgent attention with relevant military, pension and financial authorities.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, the Minister said that relevant stakeholders were being engaged inorder to achieve a fair, sustainable and implementable resolution that ensures veterans are not unfairly disadvantaged.

He gave the assurance when he met with representatives of military veterans at the Ministry of Defence, Ship House, Abuja, on Wednesday.

This was after the veterans had stormed the Ministry on Wednesday morning, demanding the payment of their over one year arrears and asked to be accommodated in the recent pay raise approved by President Bola Tinubu, for members of the Armed Forces due to take effect September 1.

The action of the veterans led to shutdown of roads leading to the Ministry as vehicular traffic was diverted.

Musa reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the welfare, remuneration and pension concerns of military veterans, assuring them that the issues raised are receiving the attention they deserve.

He acknowledged the immense sacrifices and distinguished service of Nigeria’s military veterans, stressing that their welfare remains a priority of Government.

The Minister appealed for calm, patience and constructive engagement, noting that sustained dialogue remains the most effective means of resolving outstanding concerns while preserving the dignity, honour and mutual respect befitting those who have served the nation.

He further explained that any adjustment to veterans’ entitlements must be properly computed, adequately funded and implemented in accordance with extant approvals, regulations and due process, in order to guarantee sustainability and avoid unintended disparities.

He assured the veterans that the Ministry would sustain engagement with their representatives and provide appropriate updates as progress is made towards resolving the issues raised.

He reiterated that the Federal Government deeply values the patriotism, courage and sacrifices of Nigeria’s military veterans and remains committed to ensuring that their service to the nation is recognised not only in words, but through sustained attention to their welfare and legitimate entitlements.