The Federal government has finally approved the payment of gratuity and other emoluments to 102 ex-Biafran soldiers, after being granted pardon by President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Minister of Defence, General Bashir Magashi, disclosed this at Army War College Abuja on Friday, during the ministerial briefing to flag-off the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration.
He noted although most of the personnel involved in the war are no longer alive, hence the reason only 102 war veterans were selected, saying those who are still alive with genuine complaints will be attended to in due time.
“It will interest you to know that the Military Pension Board just concluded the documentation of ex-Biafran service personnel totaling 102, who were pardoned by Mr. President.
“The war ended 51 years ago; many of those involved are no more alive but those with genuine complaints can come forward with their claims for consideration,” the minister said.
According to him, payment of pensions and gratuities to retired military personnel have been prompt and regular.
He added: “In line the anti-corruption stance of the present administration, the Ministry of Defence, in conjunction with the Military Pension Board, conducts regular verification exercises for military pensioners. The exercise is intended to streamline and check leakages in the system.
”The ministry would continue to engage the pensioners through relevant organs like the Nigerian Legion, the Veteran Affairs Division and the Military Pension Board to ensure that Government obligations to them are met.”