The Military Pensions Board has honoured a 98-year-old military veteran. Ex-Warrant Officer Echenim Emmanuel Ewemiwe was celebrated at his home in Ute-Erumu, near Agbor, in Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State. The visit coincided with his 98th birthday. The board’s Chairman, Major-General Julius Osifo, led the delegation.
Nigeria’s military veterans have faced pension and welfare challenges for decades. In 2024, retired officers protested unpaid entitlements in Abuja. In 2025, the Military Pensions Board began verifying records to eliminate ghost pensioners. The board has also attempted to reach veterans in remote communities. The visit to Ewemiwe is part of that outreach. It is also a recognition of service at an advanced age.
The delegation included Navy Commodore Galadima Ciroma, Director of Navy Pensions, and Captain Robertson Akpojovwo, Delta Legion Chairman. Osifo acknowledged the sacrifices of military veterans across the country. He reaffirmed the board’s commitment to their welfare. He said the visit reflected the board’s duty to preserve veterans’ dignity beyond the administration of pensions.
The family thanked the board for travelling to Delta. Retired MWO Chuks Echenim spoke on their behalf. The celebration featured cultural performances and traditional dances. Family members, friends and well-wishers attended. The Aruwe of Ute-Erumu, clergy members and community leaders were present. The statement was issued by the board’s Public Relations Officer, Squadron Leader Aliyu Muhammed, on Friday in Abuja.
The gesture is symbolic. It shows that the board remembers veterans beyond monthly payments. It also highlights the gap. Many veterans die without recognition. Ewemiwe reached 98. He served his country. He received a visit. Others wait.
Winners: Ewemiwe and his family, who gained recognition. The Military Pensions Board, which showed concern. The community, which gained a celebration. Losers: Veterans without similar recognition. The pension system, which still faces delays and fraud allegations. Taxpayers, if the visit was costly. No serious losers if the gesture is genuine.
Bottom Line: A 98-year-old veteran was celebrated. He deserves it. The board should extend the same recognition to others. A visit is good. A working pension system is better.