By Tony Obiechina, Abuja

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana has applauded president Muhammadu Buhari for approving the first tranche for the payment of Security Debarment Allowances to veterans of Nigerian Armed Forces.

A statement by the Director of Press in the ministry, Mrs Victoria Agba-Attah said the commencement of payment was announced at the meeting with the veterans at the Ship House, Abuja.

Dr Kana confirmed the release of N21 billion, being 28 percent of the total outstanding Security Debarment Allowance approved by President Muhammadu Buhari to the Ministry as first tranche.

He said this was in fulfilment 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 21 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 wellbeing of the Armed Forces, noting 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, Major General Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd) 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, Air Cdre. Femi Oguntuyi (rtd) 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.