The Chairman of the Military Pensions Board (MPB), Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, has urged journalists to verify allegations against the Board before publication, warning that unsubstantiated reports could erode public confidence and undermine the welfare of military retirees.
Abdulraheem also called on military veterans to unite under a common umbrella to strengthen their collective voice and improve their ability to influence government policies on pensions and welfare matters.
He made the call when he received members of the executive of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
The MPB Chairman appealed to journalists to seek clarification from the Board whenever they receive negative reports about its operations, assuring that the management would readily provide relevant information.
“Any time you hear something negative about the Board, please never be in a hurry to publish. Verify from the Board, and we are ready to speak to you,” he said.
Abdulraheem stressed that responsible reporting was essential to protecting the institution’s credibility and safeguarding the future of serving personnel who would eventually retire.
“Continue to provide credible information about the Board, because if people destroy this Board, then they are going to destroy the hopes and aspirations of those who are coming behind,” he said.
He urged journalists to remain professional and objective in their coverage, noting that constructive engagement between the media and the Board would help address misconceptions and improve public understanding of military pension administration.
On veterans’ unity, Abdulraheem said a fragmented association weakens their ability to present common demands and engage effectively with the government.
He argued that a united veterans’ body would become a formidable pressure group capable of influencing decisions on pensions, welfare and other issues affecting retired personnel.
“Veterans should form a very strong, cohesive body that can speak with one voice,” he said, adding that such unity would make political leaders and presidential aspirants consult them, especially during elections.
According to him, a united veterans’ community can mobilise its collective strength to draw attention to the concerns of retired servicemen and women and ensure their interests receive adequate consideration in public policy.
The MPB Chairman also emphasised the importance of constructive criticism, noting that advice and observations from colleagues had helped improve his leadership.
He appreciated the DECAN delegation for the recognition and goodwill extended to him, saying such gestures encouraged him to sustain his commitment to effective leadership.
Abdulraheem further called on Nigerians to protect national unity and address the country’s challenges through constructive engagement and responsible leadership.
Earlier, DECAN President, Comrade Odita Sunday, commended Abdulraheem for his leadership in handling issues affecting military veterans.
He, however, urged the Board to intensify public sensitisation on pension laws and entitlements among serving personnel and retirees to ensure they understand their rights and obligations before leaving service.
Sunday said improved awareness of pension regulations and retirement benefits would help prevent avoidable disputes, misunderstandings and protests by veterans.
He stressed that personnel should be adequately informed about the pension system before retirement to enable them to make informed decisions and know the appropriate channels for resolving complaints.
He assured the MPB Chairman of the association’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the Board in the interest of national development and the welfare of military retirees.