By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka in Abuja
Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a significant salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing it as a timely demonstration of the administration’s commitment to troop welfare.
President Tinubu recently approved a salary review of between 30% and 80% for military personnel. The new structure is expected to take effect from September 1 and will benefit an estimated 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force.
The adjustment is projected to increase the Federal Government’s annual military wage bill by about ₦264 billion, a move the government says is aimed at improving the conditions of service for those defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
Reacting to the development on Wednesday via his official social media handle, Kalu said the decision deserves commendation. He noted that it reflects a clear understanding that the welfare of members of the Armed Forces must remain a national priority.
“The decision by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve a salary increase for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces deserves commendation. It reflects an understanding that the welfare of those who defend our nation should remain a priority,” Kalu stated.
The former Abia Governor said Nigerian servicemen and women continue to make enormous sacrifices daily in defending the country’s sovereignty and confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across various theatres of operation.
He added that improving the welfare of military personnel is not only a moral obligation but also a strategic investment in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture. “Supporting them with better welfare is not only the right thing to do, but also an investment in a stronger and more effective security system,” he said.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC) urged members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to reciprocate the government’s support by upholding professionalism, fairness and respect for citizens’ rights.
“As this important gesture is being implemented, I encourage our military and other security agencies to continue to justify the confidence reposed in them by serving Nigerians with courage, professionalism, fairness and respect for human dignity,” Kalu said.
Stressing that national security remains the bedrock of economic prosperity, Kalu expressed optimism that the improved welfare package would boost morale and operational effectiveness. He reaffirmed his support for initiatives aimed at enhancing the capacity and readiness of security personnel and prayed for continued peace, progress and stability for Nigeria.
