Defence Permanent Secretary Urges Pensions Board To Prioritise Retirees

The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, has urged the Military Pensions Board (MPB) to prioritise the timely payment of pensions to retired military personnel.

Pheelangwah made the call during a visit to the headquarters of the Military Pensions Board in Abuja, according to a statement issued on Saturday by Queenet Iheoma-Hart on behalf of the director of press and public relations.

He emphasised the crucial role of the Board in safeguarding the welfare of retired members of the armed forces, stressing that pension payments to veterans should take precedence over those of serving officers.

Describing retired military personnel as a “valuable national asset,” the permanent secretary noted that the prompt and accurate administration of pensions is both a moral duty and a national responsibility.

He pointed out that many retirees depend on their pension benefits for their livelihood and wellbeing, warning that delays or administrative lapses could have serious consequences for them and their families.

Pheelangwah also encouraged the Board to continue strengthening its operational systems to improve efficiency and ensure the seamless disbursement of pensions and gratuities.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s full support for the Board’s initiatives, adding that effective pension administration remains a key component of the welfare structure that supports both serving and retired military personnel.

In his response, the chairman of the Military Pensions Board, Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdullraheem, assured the permanent secretary of the Board’s unwavering commitment to serving military retirees.

The visit also featured a tour of the Board’s facilities, including the Information and Communications, Archives, and Directorate departments, where officials briefed the delegation on their operational processes.

Directors and principal staff officers of the Board, including the Director of the Joint Services Department, were present during the visit.