By Daniel Edu
A retired civil war veteran, Colonel Nasiru Salami, has criticized the Nigerian Army’s treatment of retired personnel, citing it as a reason he would never encourage his children to join the military.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief program during the 2025 Armed Forces’ Remembrance Day on Wednesday, the 76-year-old veteran shared his journey, struggles, and disillusionment with the system.
Colonel Salami enlisted in the Nigerian Army in October 1967 and was deployed to the Biafra war just six weeks after training. He served on the front lines for 11 months between 1967 and 1970, losing his right foot during the conflict. Despite the injury, he returned to battle, demonstrating unwavering dedication.
Now serving as the Secretary of the Nigerian Legion in Lagos, Salami revealed that his decades of service have been overshadowed by unfulfilled promises and neglect.
“I cannot recommend that any of my children join the Nigerian Army,” he declared. “They see me now, and my life isn’t what they expected. They want me to be happier and more fulfilled. How can I encourage them to join the same army?”
Salami, a father of two graduates, advised his children against enlisting in the army, suggesting alternative careers in the Navy or Air Force, which he believes offer better treatment.
He lamented the government’s failure to pay war bonuses promised to him and other civil war veterans, despite over 50 years passing since the conflict.
“We are asking for war bonuses for those of us who fought. I retired in December 1983, and they promised us so much, but we haven’t seen anything yet,” he said, urging authorities to improve the welfare of veterans and fulfill longstanding promises.
The Nigerian Legion in Lagos, Salami noted, has over 24,000 members, many of whom continue to face similar challenges in receiving pensions and post-retirement benefits.
Salami’s plea highlights the ongoing struggles of veterans, sparking a call for the government to honor their sacrifices and improve their living conditions.
