Retired paramilitary chiefs hail President Bola Tinubu’s lifetime salary approval as long-overdue reform to improve welfare and restore dignity in retirement.

Retired senior officers from Nigeria’s paramilitary services have applauded President Tinubu for approving a lifetime salary structure for top-ranking officers, describing the move as a historic step toward addressing long-standing welfare concerns.

The commendation came during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, by former Controller-Generals and senior officials from agencies including the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Fire Service, and Nigerian Correctional Service.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, former Comptroller-General of the NIS, Chukwura Udeh, said the approval brings closure to years of uncertainty and hardship experienced by retired officers. He noted that previous administrations had failed to resolve the issue, leaving many retirees financially vulnerable despite decades of service.

According to him, the new structure goes beyond policy, serving as recognition of sacrifice and a reassurance that national service will not end in hardship.

In response, Tunji-Ojo emphasised that the administration prioritises the welfare of both serving and retired personnel, noting that nation-building includes taking care of those who safeguard it. He added that the government’s reform agenda aims to ensure that no officer retires into poverty.

The minister also highlighted ongoing reforms across paramilitary agencies, including the clearance of promotion backlogs and regular promotion exercises, which he said have improved morale and professionalism.

The development has been widely interpreted as part of broader efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen welfare structures within Nigeria’s security architecture and restore confidence among personnel. (AriseNews TV)