ABUJA – (Defence Ministry Report) – The Federal Government has commenced the payment of Security Debarment Allowance (SDA) to Nigerian Armed Forces veterans. The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Ibrahim Abubakar Kana (Dr) disclosed this at a meeting with the veterans at the Ship House, Abuja lately.
Ibrahim Kana who confirmed the release of 21 billion naira, being 28 percent of the total outstanding Security Debarment Allowance approved by President Muhammadu Buhari to the Ministry as first tranche said this was in fulfilment of the promise made by Government in September 2022 that payment of SDA to veterans would start as soon as possible.
“The Federal Government has released the sum of 21 Billion Naira as first tranche of the Security Debarment Allowance to the veterans to be paid as promised, ” he said.
He further revealed that by making the funds available, the Government has demonstrated its commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of the Armed Forces, noting that the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance through the Military Pensions Board initiated the commencement of payment of the allowances.
The Permanent Secretary also hinted that the Nigerian President has reduced the spread of payment from 3-5 years to within 3 years.
While appreciating President Muhammadu Buhari for prioritizing the request of the Ministry promptly at all times, he commended the Minister of Defence, Bashir Salihi Magashi (Maj Gen Rtd) and the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed for the passion with which they have been pursuing the welfare and well being of Nigerian veterans.
In his response at the occasion, the leader of the delegation of veterans, Femi Oguntuyi (Air Cdre Rtd) thanked the Permanent Secretary for his efforts and lauded the Federal Government for the prompt response to the plight of Ex-Service men on the Security Debarment Allowance.
