Federal Government has commenced the payment of Security Debarment Allowance (SDA) to Nigerian Armed Forces veterans.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana stated this at a meeting with the veterans at the Ship House, Abuja.
Dr Kana who confirmed the release of N21 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 fulfillment 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 N21 billion Naira as first tranche of the Security Debarment Allowance to the veterans to be paid as promised, ” he said.
He further said that by making the funds available, the Government has demonstrated its commitment to the welfare and well-being of the Armed Forces.
He noted 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 further announced that the president has also 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, Dr Kana commends the Minister of Defence, retired Major General Bashir Magashi and the Minister of Finance, Mrs Zainab Ahmed for the passion used in pursuing the welfare and well being of Nigerian Veterans.
In his response, the leader of the delegation of the Veterans, retired Air Cdre. Femi Oguntuyi thanked the Permanent Secretary for his efforts and appreciates the Federal Government for the prompt response to the plight of ex-service men on the Security Debarment Allowance.
RN
