Juliet Akoje In Abuja
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, MFR, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for approving a significant upward review of the salaries and welfare package of personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
He also commended the President for approving the expansion and reorganisation of the Nigerian Army through the creation of four new divisions and the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel.
Speaking in a statement issued on behalf of the Committee, Benson described the President’s actions as historic, timely and far-reaching, saying they reflect the Federal Government’s strong commitment to strengthening the country’s security framework while improving the welfare and working conditions of military personnel.
He stated that the improved salary structure for officers and soldiers at all levels, particularly the substantial increase for junior personnel, would enhance morale, boost operational effectiveness, improve personnel retention, attract competent recruits and further strengthen the commitment of members of the Armed Forces to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Benson added that prioritising the welfare of military personnel is essential to building a disciplined, highly motivated and professional Armed Forces capable of effectively responding to the nation’s changing security challenges.
The lawmaker also welcomed the President’s approval for the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to twelve divisions through the establishment of new divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City.
He described the move as a major strategic development that would strengthen command and control, decentralise military operations, improve rapid troop deployment, enhance border security, support intelligence-driven operations and increase the Armed Forces’ ability to tackle terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities nationwide.
According to him, the combination of improved welfare, increased manpower and a strengthened operational structure would not only reinforce Nigeria’s defence capability but also promote greater professionalism, discipline, operational excellence and institutional efficiency within the Armed Forces.
He said President Tinubu had once again demonstrated strong leadership and a firm commitment to the country’s security and stability, noting that the reforms represent strategic investments in the men and women who make daily sacrifices to preserve Nigeria’s peace, unity and democratic values. Benson stressed that a motivated and properly equipped military remains critical to achieving sustainable national security and national development.
The Committee further noted that the reforms are in line with the objectives of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflect the administration’s resolve to build a modern, resilient and globally competitive military capable of responding effectively to both conventional and emerging security threats.
The House Committee on Defence reaffirmed its support for the President’s security initiatives and pledged to continue providing the necessary legislative backing, policy support and oversight to ensure the successful implementation of the reforms.
The Committee also expressed confidence that the initiatives would strengthen public trust in the Armed Forces, improve national security outcomes and make a significant contribution to lasting peace, stability and sustainable development across Nigeria.