The Chairman of the Military Pensions Board (MPB), Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, has described the recognition of Nigeria’s military veterans as a symbolic tribute to their distinguished service and sacrifices.
He made the remarks while paying a courtesy visit to Master Warrant Officer Michael Etuwe, former orderly to the late Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, in Masaka, Nasarawa State.
The visit was intended to honour Master Warrant Officer Etuwe, whose close service to General Muhammed places him among the few living witnesses to a defining period in Nigeria’s national history.
Abdulraheem noted that such engagements reflect the nation’s enduring gratitude to veterans whose dedication contributed significantly to the defence and stability of the country.
Master Warrant Officer Etuwe served as an orderly to General Muhammed during a critical era of Nigeria’s governance and military leadership, providing him with a unique perspective on the operations and personal discipline of one of the country’s most revered leaders.
Recalling a historic moment, Etuwe was on duty and seated in the official vehicle on 13 February 1976, when General Muhammed was assassinated in Lagos. His presence during the incident makes him one of the few surviving witnesses to a defining event in Nigeria’s political and military history.
Also Read: Legion Chair, Military Pension Board Meet On Veterans’ Welfare
The courtesy visit was attended by representatives of various veterans’ associations, alongside members of the Ministerial Committee on Veterans’ Welfare. Stakeholders commended the MPB Chairman for his leadership style and unwavering commitment to veterans’ affairs, describing the engagement as timely and deeply reassuring to the retired military community.
In his remarks, Pa Michael Etuwe expressed profound delight at the visit, describing it as a rare and meaningful honour. He conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board and members of the veterans’ community for the recognition and show of solidarity.
He stressed that the sacrifices of veterans remain an enduring pillar of Nigeria’s peace, unity and national development.
The visit concluded in an atmosphere of reflection and mutual respect, reinforcing the shared responsibility of preserving the legacy, history and wellbeing of those who served the nation with courage, loyalty and selfless dedication.