Veteran’s Heartfelt Decision: I Will Never Let My Kids Join The Nigerian Army—Here’s Why

Veteran’s Heartfelt Decision: I Will Never Let My Kids Join The Nigerian Army—Here’s Why

A retired civil war veteran, Colonel Nasiru Salami, has voiced his strong objection to allowing his children to join the Nigerian Army, citing the….Veteran’s Heartfelt Decision: I Will Never Let My Kids Join The Nigerian Army—Here’s Why

inadequate treatment of retired military personnel by the authorities.

Salami, 76, shared his thoughts during a guest appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on January 15, 2025, as part of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day commemoration. Reflecting on his harrowing experiences in the Nigerian Civil War, he recalled the difficult conditions he faced after enlisting in the army in 1967, including severe injuries sustained during combat.

After spending 11 months on the frontlines of the Civil War, Salami endured significant physical damage, including a badly injured right foot that required the insertion of plastic materials for healing. Despite his injuries, he returned to the battlefield to continue his service.

In discussing his post-service struggles, Salami expressed deep disappointment over the poor welfare of retired soldiers. He remarked, “For now, I will never recommend any of my children to join the Nigerian Army. They see me now, and my life is not what they expected. They would want me to be in a better position—happy and fulfilled. How could I encourage them to join when my own experience is so disheartening?”

Salami, who currently serves as the Secretary of the Lagos Chapter of the Nigerian Legion, advised his children, both university graduates, to pursue other branches of the military, such as the Navy or Air Force, which he believes offer better opportunities and treatment.

He also revealed the challenges facing the Nigerian Legion, which includes over 24,000 members, many of whom share similar grievances. Salami highlighted the government’s failure to honor promises made over 50 years ago regarding war bonuses. He also lamented his own unpaid pension and other retirement benefits, stating, “I retired in December 1983, and they promised us war bonuses, but till now, nothing has been paid.”

Salami’s comments reflect the deep frustration among former soldiers who feel neglected by the government after their years of service.

For More Information And News Update, Join Ireporteronline WhatsApp Channel With Link Below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaV4jB6DuMRgwqnJCF32 For advertisement inquiries only, kindly send a message to 09010649814 on Whatsapp