Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving a sweeping salary increase of between 30 and 80 per cent for personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, describing the decision as a defining investment in the nation’s security architecture.
Yar’Adua said the salary adjustment, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, and covers about 250,000 military personnel, goes beyond improved remuneration, representing a powerful vote of confidence in the officers and soldiers who continue to risk their lives in defence of Nigeria.
According to him, the increase in the Armed Forces’ annual personnel wage bill from ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion demonstrates the Federal Government’s determination to place the welfare of military personnel at the heart of its national security agenda.
“The men and women of our Armed Forces have remained steadfast in the face of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes. They have served with uncommon courage, often under extremely difficult conditions. This landmark salary review is a deserving recognition of their sacrifice and commitment to duty,” he said.
The lawmaker noted that the welfare package comes at a critical period when Nigerian troops are recording renewed operational successes across various theatres of operation and requiring sustained national support to consolidate the gains already made.
He also described the recent expansion of Army divisions as another strategic step towards strengthening operational capacity, improving response time and deepening the military’s ability to confront emerging security threats across the country.
Paying tribute to troops on the frontlines, Yar’Adua said the nation owes them an enduring debt of gratitude.
“Every soldier standing guard in our forests, deserts, highways and communities represents the resilience of our nation. Many have paid the supreme sacrifice so that millions of Nigerians can live in peace. Their patriotism must never be taken for granted.”
He pledged that the Senate Committee on Army would continue to provide robust legislative backing for improved troop welfare, modern military equipment, enhanced funding and policies that strengthen the effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
Senator Yar’Adua expressed confidence that with sustained government support, improved welfare and the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces, Nigeria would prevail against all forces threatening its peace, unity and territorial integrity.
