By Sam Kutos
Abuja — Monday, August 4, 2025 | Newspointer News
Retired Nigerian Army personnel on Monday shut down the Federal Ministry of Finance headquarters in Abuja over the non-payment of their gratuities and other outstanding entitlements.
The ex-servicemen, mainly from the 1st and 2nd quarters of the voluntary discharge scheme, barricaded the ministry’s main gate as early as 7 a.m., blocking staff and visitors from entering the building. Many of them were dressed in camouflage gear and chanted protest songs as they demanded immediate payment of all arrears owed to them.
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Their grievances include:
Non-payment of gratuity shortfalls
Unpaid Security Debarment Allowance (SDA)
43 months of withheld salary
Parking allowance
Wage award palliatives approved by the Federal Government
Speaking during the protest, one of the coordinators said the government had made repeated promises but failed to follow through with full payments.
“We have served this country faithfully. What we are asking for is not a favour. These are our rights,” he said.
Attempts by a senior retired Air Vice Marshal to mediate were rejected, as the protesters insisted there would be no dialogue until payments are made.
This protest follows earlier demonstrations in December 2024 and January 2025, during which some payments were made after similar blockades. However, the retirees say most entitlements remain outstanding despite official approvals.
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Security personnel were present at the ministry to prevent any breakdown of order, and the protest remained peaceful as of press time.
Officials from the Ministry of Finance and the Military Pensions Board have yet to issue any statement on the matter.
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