Retired members of the Nigerian Armed Forces have appealed to the government to increase their monthly pensions as the country marked the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. The call was made during the ceremony held in Benin City, Edo State, where veterans gathered to honour fallen heroes.

A retired officer, Major Joe Kama, said that while pensions are now paid regularly, the amount is no longer enough to meet rising living costs. He explained that better welfare for retirees would also motivate those still serving in the military to remain dedicated and loyal to the nation.

The Edo State Coordinator of the Military Widows Association, Umar Sheriffat, also urged the government to pay more attention to widows of fallen soldiers. She asked for empowerment programmes and financial support to help widows care for their children and rebuild their lives.

Speaking at the event, Governor Monday Okpebholo praised the sacrifices of the armed forces and their families. He called for stronger government backing for both serving officers and retirees, stressing that their service is the foundation of Nigeria’s unity and peace.