A civil society organisation, the Northern Security Advocacy Group, has alleged that ongoing media attacks against the Chairman of the Military Pension Board, AVM Mikali Abdulraheem, are being sponsored by vested interests seeking to undermine reforms within the system.
The group, led by Jonathan Onoja, made the allegation during a world press conference held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at TIDE Hotels in Abuja.
Addressing journalists, Onoja described the media campaign against Abdulraheem as a “coordinated effort aimed at distracting and discrediting” the leadership of the Military Pension Board. He claimed the group has “credible reasons” to believe that some retired senior military officers are behind the attacks.
According to him, since assuming office, Abdulraheem has introduced measurable reforms, including faster and more transparent payment of pensions and gratuities. He noted that the rollout of digital verification systems nationwide has helped curb fraud, reduce delays, and improve access to entitlements for retired personnel.
Onoja added that several military veterans present at the briefing attested to the improvements, reinforcing claims that the board’s operations have become more efficient under the current leadership.
He warned that the alleged media attacks go beyond personal criticism, describing them as an affront to the welfare of Nigeria’s retired servicemen and women.
“These attacks are not just against one man; they undermine the entire military family and the sacrifices of our veterans,” he said.
The group called on those allegedly sponsoring the media narratives to desist immediately, urging stakeholders, security agencies, and the media to disregard what it termed “distractions” and support ongoing reforms at the board.
Passing a vote of confidence on Abdulraheem, the group maintained that the Military Pension Board is functioning effectively and should be allowed to continue its work without interference.
“The military pension board under AVM Abdulraheem is working. Let him work. Nigeria is bigger than any one man,” Onoja concluded.
