Real reason we haven’t paid pensioners new minimum wage – Military Pensions Board

In response to growing concern among retired military veterans over delays in receiving new pension allowances, the Military Pensions Board has issued a statement clarifying the cause of the hold-up.

According to the board, the delay is due to the non-release of necessary funds and is not related to the ongoing electronic verification exercise, which has been a source of speculation among pensioners.

The statement, signed by the board’s Chairman, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Irumheson, was released on Monday to reassure veterans and address the circulating misinformation.

AVM Irumheson emphasized that the current electronic verification exercise—scheduled to conclude on October 31, 2024, after an extension—is unrelated to the payment of the newly approved pension rates.

He appealed to pensioners to dismiss any rumors suggesting otherwise, confirming that payments would proceed as soon as the funds are disbursed.

The nationwide electronic verification, which began on July 1, 2024, is part of a routine exercise to ensure that the pension payroll accurately reflects the legitimate number of beneficiaries, allowing for efficient budgeting and planning.

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While acknowledging the frustration caused by the delays, AVM Irumheson expressed gratitude for the continued cooperation and patience of the military pensioners.

He said, “The Board decided to move from physical to electronic verification to make life easier for its pensioners, particularly due to the security risks associated with travelling by road, the high cost of transportation, and the financial burden of travelling down to Nigeria for pensioners residing abroad, among others.

“With the advent of the electronic verification system, pensioners can now carry out their verification from the comfort of our homes without the need to gather for any physical verification and the exercise has so far been successful.”

AVM Irumheson further allayed the fears of veterans that no single pensioner will be short-changed of their entitlements, including arrears as the Board is working closely with relevant authorities to get funds released for payment.

He added, “In its transparent manner, is constantly briefing the 5-man Ministerial Standing Committee on every step taken so far and advised the veterans to regularly check with the committee for updates as the committee remains the bridge between the Veterans Community and the Board.

Furthermore, he called for a little more patience, noting that the board is making extra efforts to ensure that all outstanding entitlements are paid as soon as possible and that the welfare of veterans remains their utmost priority.

(Vanguard)