President Bola Tinubu has approved a range of luxurious benefits for retiring Nigerian Army Generals, marking a significant enhancement to their retirement packages under the newly signed Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) for Officers and Enlisted Personnel in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The HTACOS, which had been in development since the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, was officially signed by President Tinubu on December 14, 2024. This policy outlines extensive benefits for military officers of various ranks, particularly those of General rank, after completing 35 years of service.
Under the new terms, retired service chiefs, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, and Chief of Air Staff, will each receive a bulletproof SUV or its equivalent as part of their retirement package. This vehicle, along with a backup car, will be replaced every four years and maintained by the Armed Forces.
“These vehicles symbolize the nation’s gratitude for their decades of service,” a source explained, emphasizing the value of the updated benefits.
In addition, retired Generals will enjoy fully paid foreign medical treatments, along with an annual allowance of $20,000 for medical trips. Domestic staff, including two cooks, two stewards, and a civilian gardener, will also be provided, alongside military drivers, orderlies, and escorts for security purposes.
“The government has prioritized the welfare of our retired Generals, ensuring they are taken care of during their post-service years,” a senior official stated.
The terms also allow retired officers to retain their military uniforms and accoutrements for ceremonial purposes and provide them with free medical care both in Nigeria and abroad.
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Lieutenant Generals and their equivalents will receive two Toyota Hilux vehicles or one Toyota Land Cruiser, along with $20,000 annually for foreign medical care, two cooks, two stewards, four residential guards, and two drivers. Major Generals and Brigadier Generals are entitled to a Toyota Land Cruiser or Camry, $15,000 or $10,000 for medical expenses, and similar domestic staff arrangements.
Colonels and officers of equivalent rank will receive a Toyota Corolla or its equivalent, as well as free medical care within Nigeria. The updated HTACOS ensures that all ranks are adequately rewarded for their service.
One retired officer applauded the changes, noting, “These updated packages reflect the current economic realities and the sacrifices made by military personnel throughout their careers.”
While the practice of rewarding retired Generals is not new, the HTACOS has significantly increased the benefits to align with modern socio-economic conditions. The move demonstrates the government’s recognition of the critical role played by the military in safeguarding national security and stability.
“This is not just about money or luxury,” a retired officer remarked. “It’s about honoring the men and women who dedicate their lives to defending our country.”
The policy comes as part of President Tinubu’s broader efforts to enhance the welfare of military personnel and improve morale within the armed forces. Critics, however, have raised concerns over the financial implications of these benefits, particularly given Nigeria’s challenging economic climate.
The revised HTACOS marks a new chapter for military retirees, ensuring they enjoy dignity and comfort in their post-service years. The next step will be its implementation and monitoring to ensure all officers benefit as intended.