By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Military Pensions Board (MPB) has honoured a 98-year-old retired Warrant Officer, Echenim Emmanuel Ewemiwe, during a special birthday celebration at Ute-Erumu, near Agbor, in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State.
The Chairman of the Board, Major General JE Osifo, led a delegation to celebrate the veteran, recognising his years of service and sacrifices to the Nigerian military.
Other members of the delegation included the Director of Navy Pensions, Commodore Galadima Ciroma; Squadron Leader Aliyu Mohammed; and the Delta State Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Captain Robertson Akpojovwo.
The visit formed part of activities marking Ewemiwe’s 98th birthday and provided an opportunity for the Board’s leadership to identify with one of Nigeria’s oldest military veterans.
The celebration featured colourful cultural performances and traditional dances, with family members, friends and well-wishers in attendance to celebrate the veteran’s life and military legacy.
Speaking at the event, Osifo acknowledged the sacrifices and contributions of military veterans to the country, assuring them of the Board’s continued commitment to their welfare and well-being.
He stressed that the welfare of retired military personnel remained a priority for the Board, adding that veterans deserved recognition, dignity and support for their service to the nation.
Dignitaries at the occasion included the Aruwe of Ute-Erumu, clergy members and other community leaders.
In a vote of thanks, the family’s representative, retired Master Warrant Officer Chuks Echenim, expressed appreciation to the MPB Chairman and his delegation for travelling to Delta State to celebrate with their father.
He described the visit as a demonstration of the Board’s concern for military veterans and their families.
The gesture underscores the Military Pensions Board’s commitment to recognising the contributions of retired military personnel and honouring their service beyond the administration of pension benefits.
