By Nkechi Eze
The Chairman of the Military Pensions Board (MPB), Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, has urged journalists to adopt balanced and responsible reporting in their coverage of the board, warning that unverified allegations could undermine public confidence in the institution and jeopardise the welfare interests of military retirees.
Abdulraheem made the call when he received members of the executive of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN), led by its President, Comrade Odita Sunday, on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
He urged journalists to seek clarification from the board before publishing negative reports about its operations, assuring them that the management remained open to engagement and would provide relevant information to address concerns.
“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.
The MPB chairman stressed that credible reporting was essential to preserving the institution’s reputation and protecting the pension interests of both current retirees and serving military personnel who would eventually leave service.
“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,” Abdulraheem said.
He called for professionalism, objectivity and constructive engagement in media coverage of military pension administration, noting that balanced reporting would help correct misconceptions and promote better public understanding of the board’s responsibilities.
Abdulraheem also emphasised the importance of constructive criticism, explaining that observations and advice from colleagues had helped improve his leadership and performance.
Beyond media relations, the MPB chairman called on military veterans to unite under a strong and cohesive association to strengthen their collective voice and improve their ability to influence government policies on pensions and welfare.
He argued that fragmented veterans’ groups were less effective in presenting common demands, adding that a united body could serve as a formidable pressure group on issues affecting retired servicemen and women.
“Veterans should form a very strong, cohesive body that can speak with one voice,” he said, urging political leaders and presidential aspirants to consult veterans, particularly during election periods.
He said greater unity among veterans would help draw attention to their concerns and ensure that their welfare needs received adequate consideration in public policy decisions.
The chairman expressed appreciation to the DECAN delegation for its goodwill and recognition, while urging Nigerians to protect national unity and address the country’s challenges through responsible leadership and constructive engagement.
Earlier, DECAN President, Comrade Odita Sunday, commended Abdulraheem for his leadership in handling issues affecting military veterans but urged the board to intensify public sensitisation on pension laws, entitlements and retirement benefits.
Sunday said improved awareness among serving personnel and retirees would help prevent avoidable disputes, misunderstandings and protests arising from inadequate knowledge of pension regulations.
He stressed that military personnel should be properly informed about their pension rights, obligations and entitlements before retirement to enable them to make informed decisions and understand the appropriate channels for resolving complaints.
The DECAN president assured the board of the association’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the MPB in the interest of national development and the welfare of military retirees.
