In a historic move aimed at bolstering the welfare of Nigeria’s military leadership, President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant increase in the retirement benefits for officers of General rank in the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN). This decision follows the signing of the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service for Officers and Enlisted Personnel on December 14, 2024.
Under the new provisions, which were years in the making since the tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari, retiring senior officers, including the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff, and the Chief of Air Staff, will receive luxurious benefits upon completing 35 years of service.
The new retirement package includes the provision of a bulletproof SUV or its equivalent, which will be maintained by the Armed Forces and replaced every four years. Retiring officers will also receive a backup vehicle, such as a Peugeot 508, alongside other perks, including full medical treatment abroad, a $20,000 annual estacode for medical trips, and the provision of domestic staff such as cooks, stewards, and residential guards.
One of the most notable aspects of this new package is the expanded support for retired generals. Officers at the level of Lieutenant Generals and equivalents will be entitled to foreign medical treatment, with the Chief of Defence Staff expected to receive a higher allowance. They will also enjoy the services of a Special Assistant or Personal Assistant, military drivers, and a military orderly, with security personnel and escorts provided by relevant military units.
For Major Generals and Brigadier Generals, the benefits include a Toyota Land Cruiser or its equivalent, alongside $15,000 annually for medical treatment, domestic staff, and residential guards. One-star generals will be provided with a Toyota Camry or similar vehicle, $10,000 for medical expenses, and other staff benefits.
Colonels and their equivalents, though receiving less extravagant packages, will be entitled to a Toyota Corolla or similar vehicle and free medical treatment within Nigeria.
The approval of these enhanced retirement benefits comes as part of a broader effort to ensure that Nigeria’s senior military officers are adequately supported after their years of service. While the rewarding of retired service chiefs and generals with generous benefits is not a new practice, the updated terms reflect a necessary adjustment to meet the current socio-economic realities of the country.
These changes are expected to boost morale within the Armed Forces, providing the highest-ranking officers with the financial security and resources to enjoy a comfortable retirement after decades of service to the nation.
