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Why I Won’t Let My Children Join the Nigerian Army”Says 76-Year-Old Veteran

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 15th, 2025.

Why I Won’t Let My Children Join the Nigerian Army”Says 76-Year-Old Veteran

Colonel Nasiru Salami (retd.), a 76-year-old veteran of the Nigerian Army, has expressed deep concern about the treatment of retired soldiers by the Nigerian military authorities. Appearing on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief during the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Salami highlighted his frustration over unpaid pensions and other benefits owed to him and fellow retirees.

Salami, who retired in December 1983, shared his dissatisfaction with the government’s failure to honor promises made to soldiers who served in the Nigerian Civil War. He explained that despite assurances of receiving a war bonus, he and other war veterans have yet to receive the promised payment, even decades later. He appealed to the government to address the situation and improve the living conditions of retired military personnel.

The veteran also revealed that the Nigerian Legion in Lagos has over 24,000 members, yet the government has still not paid out war bonuses to those who fought in the Civil War more than 50 years ago.

Salami, reflecting on his own experiences, stated that he could never recommend the Nigerian Army to his children. “I can’t encourage my children to join the army, especially when they see the difficulties I’ve faced in my own life. They deserve a life full of happiness, not one where they struggle like I have,” he said.

He mentioned that he has two graduates and advised them against pursuing a career in the Army, suggesting they consider the Navy or Air Force instead, as he believes they are treated better.

In an emotional recounting, Salami shared his journey from joining the Nigerian Army in 1967, just six weeks before being deployed to the frontlines of the Biafra War. He spent 11 months on the battlefield during the Civil War and endured significant injuries, including a severe foot injury that required plastic surgery. Despite his injuries, Salami returned to the front to continue fighting.

Now serving as the Secretary of the Nigerian Legion in Lagos, Salami’s story is a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by veterans and the need for better treatment of those who have served the country.