Lessons from the Battlefield: A 76-Year-Old Nigerian War Veteran’s Stance on Military Service for His Children
Colonel Nasiru Salami (retd), a 76-year-old Nigerian civil war veteran, has expressed his refusal to allow his children to join the Nigerian Army. Reflecting on his 11 months of service during the Biafra conflict, Salami recounted enduring severe injuries, including the loss of his right foot, yet he returned to the frontlines to continue fighting.
He lamented the inadequate treatment of military retirees, highlighting issues such as unpaid war bonuses and pensions. Salami emphasized that despite his dedication, the government’s failure to honor its promises to veterans has led him to discourage his children from pursuing a military career.
In addition to his personal experiences, Salami criticized the current state of the Nigerian military, particularly the use of inferior weapons by security agents combating groups like Lakurawa. He called for the provision of more advanced weaponry to enhance the effectiveness of the armed forces.
Salami’s stance underscores the challenges faced by veterans and the need for improved welfare and support for military personnel in Nigeria.