Emmanuel OchayiThe Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has criticised the recently approved retirement benefits for Nigeria’s top military officers.
These benefits include $20,000 annually for foreign medical treatment, bullet-proof SUVs, and other luxurious perks. MDCAN argues that these packages highlight the government’s lack of confidence in the local healthcare system.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelDetails of the Retirement Package
According to the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service for Officers and Enlisted Personnel in the Nigerian Armed Forces, signed by President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff and other service chiefs are entitled to a bullet-proof SUV and a Peugeot 508 as a backup. These vehicles will be replaced every four years and maintained by the military. Additionally, these retired generals will receive domestic aides, including cooks and stewards, and have access to security personnel and drivers.
Lieutenant generals and equivalents will enjoy international and local medical treatment worth up to $20,000 annually, alongside their luxury vehicles and other benefits. The retirement perks extend to major generals, brigadier generals, and even lower-ranked officers, with varying degrees of luxury and medical allowances.
MDCAN’s Concerns
MDCAN President, Prof. Muhammad Muhammad, expressed concern that the allocation of foreign medical treatment for retired officers suggests a lack of trust in Nigeria’s healthcare system. He highlighted that many of the treatments sought abroad are provided by Nigerian doctors, and the government should focus on improving the local healthcare infrastructure.
“The decision to officially provide for foreign treatment is troubling,” Muhammad said. “It signals that the government itself lacks confidence in our healthcare system.”
Broader Implications for Healthcare
Prof. Muhammad emphasised the need for increased investment in Nigeria’s healthcare system. He suggested that the government should ensure that the same level of care available abroad is accessible within the country. This approach would boost public confidence in local healthcare services and providers.
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The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) echoed similar sentiments, with its President, Prof. Bala Audu, urging that all benefits for government officials should be sourced locally. Audu stressed that investing in local healthcare would be more beneficial for the country’s economy and healthcare system.
NARD’s Perspective on Medical Tourism
Dr. Tope Osundara, President of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), criticised the trend of medical tourism, stating that it undermines the local healthcare system. He pointed out that the treatments sought abroad could be provided in Nigeria if the government prioritised upgrading hospitals and equipping them with modern facilities.
“It’s not like we don’t have competent Nigerian doctors,” Osundara noted. “But instead of investing in our health system, we’re spending money abroad, which benefits other economies.”
Public Reaction and Accountability
The extravagant retirement benefits have sparked public outcry, with many questioning the government’s priorities during a time of economic hardship. The Country Director of Accountability Lab Nigeria, Friday Odeh, described the benefits as “alarming” and called for citizens to challenge such policies.
Odeh stated, “It is alarming that service chiefs are set to receive these benefits at a time when millions of Nigerians are struggling. This raises serious concerns about the government’s priorities.”
Governance and Fairness
Okechukwu Nwaguma, Executive Director of the Rule of Law Advocacy and Accountability Centre, criticised the disconnect between the government’s actions and the realities faced by citizens. He emphasised that the lavish benefits for military leaders contrast sharply with the struggles of ordinary Nigerians dealing with insecurity, unemployment, and inflation.
“This situation highlights the need for governance that reflects the will and welfare of the people,” Nwaguma said. “The government must demonstrate empathy and responsibility to regain public trust.”
Call for Reform
Healthcare professionals and civil society leaders are calling for a paradigm shift in the government’s approach to healthcare. They argue that investing in local healthcare facilities and services is essential for the long-term stability and well-being of Nigerians.
Dr. Osundara concluded, “We need comprehensive reforms to make our healthcare system efficient and self-sustaining. This will not only improve healthcare access but also ensure that public funds are used to benefit all Nigerians, not just a privileged few.”
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
