By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Northern Security Advocacy Group has raised concerns over what it described as a growing threat to the welfare of Nigeria’s retired military personnel, alleging that ongoing media attacks against the Chairman of the Military Pension Board, Air Vice Marshal Mikali Abdulraheem, are being sponsored by vested interests opposed to reforms.
The group’s leader, Jonathan Onoja, made the allegation on Wednesday during a world press conference, where he addressed journalists on the implications of what he called a sustained campaign to discredit the board’s leadership.
Onoja described the media reports as a “coordinated effort aimed at distracting and discrediting” Abdulraheem, warning that such actions risk undermining improvements already recorded in the administration of military pensions.
He claimed the group has “credible reasons” to believe that some retired senior military officers are behind the attacks, motivated by resistance to reforms introduced under the current leadership.
According to him, Abdulraheem has implemented measurable changes since assuming office, including faster and more transparent payment of pensions and gratuities. He added that the introduction of digital verification systems nationwide has helped curb fraud, reduce delays, and enhance access to entitlements for retirees.
Onoja noted that several military veterans present at the briefing attested to these improvements, reinforcing the view that the board’s operations have become more efficient and responsive.
He warned that the alleged campaign goes beyond personal criticism, describing it as a direct affront to the welfare and dignity of Nigeria’s retired servicemen and women.
“These attacks are not just against one man; they undermine the entire military family and the sacrifices of our veterans,” he said.
The group called on those allegedly sponsoring the media narratives to desist immediately, urging stakeholders, security agencies, and the media to disregard what it termed “distractions” and instead support ongoing reforms within the board.
Passing a vote of confidence on Abdulraheem, the organisation maintained that the Military Pension Board is functioning effectively and should be allowed to continue its work without interference.
“The Military Pension Board under AVM Abdulraheem is working. Let him work. Nigeria is bigger than any one man,”Onoja stated.
