MPB Chairman Urges Media to Verify Reports, Calls for Veterans’ Unity

By Aviashima Toom, Abuja 

The Chairman of the Military Pensions Board (MPB), Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, has urged journalists to verify allegations against the board before publication, warning that unsubstantiated reports could undermine public confidence in the institution and jeopardise the welfare interests of military retirees.

He also called on military veterans to unite under a common platform to strengthen their collective voice and improve their ability to influence government policies on pensions and other welfare-related matters.

Abdulraheem made the call when he received members of the executive of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN), who paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.

The MPB chairman urged journalists to seek clarification from the board whenever they receive negative reports about its operations, assuring them that the management remained open to providing relevant information.

“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.

He emphasised that responsible journalism and accurate reporting were essential to protecting the credibility of the board, noting that the institution played a critical role in safeguarding the pension rights and future welfare of military personnel.

“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 encouraged the media to maintain professionalism and objectivity in reporting the board's activities, adding that constructive engagement between journalists and the institution would help correct misconceptions and promote a better understanding of military pension administration.

On veterans' welfare, Abdulraheem expressed concern over the fragmentation of veterans' associations, arguing that the absence of a unified platform weakened their ability to articulate common demands and engage effectively with the government.

He said a strong and cohesive veterans' organisation would be better positioned to influence decisions on pensions, welfare benefits and other issues affecting retired military personnel.

“Veterans should form a very strong, cohesive body that can speak with one voice,” he said.

According to him, a united veterans' community could become an influential pressure group capable of drawing the attention of political leaders and presidential aspirants to the needs of retired servicemen and women, particularly during election periods.

He maintained that collective action would enable veterans to mobilise their numerical strength and ensure that their concerns received adequate attention in public policy decisions.

The MPB chairman also underscored the importance of constructive criticism in leadership, noting that observations and advice from colleagues had contributed to improving his performance.

He thanked the DECAN delegation for the recognition and goodwill extended to him, saying such gestures served as encouragement to remain committed to effective leadership and service.

Abdulraheem further called on Nigerians to protect national unity and address the country's challenges through constructive engagement and responsible leadership.

Earlier, DECAN President, Odita Sunday, commended the MPB chairman for his leadership and efforts in addressing issues affecting military veterans.

Sunday, however, urged the board to intensify public sensitisation on pension laws, entitlements and retirement procedures to ensure that serving personnel and retirees were adequately informed about their rights and obligations.

He said improved awareness of pension regulations and retirement benefits would help prevent avoidable disputes, misunderstandings and protests by veterans.

The DECAN president stressed the need to educate military personnel about the pension system before their retirement, enabling them to make informed decisions and understand the appropriate channels for resolving complaints.

He reaffirmed the association's commitment to strengthening cooperation with the Military Pensions Board in promoting responsible reporting, national development and the welfare of retired military personnel.