Defence chief Olufemi Oluyede has assured officers and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria that concrete steps are underway to enhance their salaries and overall welfare.
Mr Oluyede gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja at the social night for soldiers, ratings, airmen and airwomen during the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
He said the initiative was being pursued in conjunction with the service chiefs and with the approval of President Bola Tinubu.
“If I tell you we are working on something, please be hopeful. Something positive will come up,” he said.
He pledged that 2026 would be a better year for personnel of the armed forces, noting that, beyond salary enhancement, arrangements were also being finalised to improve post-service welfare, particularly through access to soft loans for spouses and affordable housing schemes for serving and retired members.
According to the defence chief, discussions are ongoing with financial institutions to provide low-interest loans to the spouses of service personnel to help them establish sustainable businesses, while housing loan options are being expanded to ensure personnel retire with dignity.
The defence chief commended soldiers, ratings, airmen and airwomen for their resilience and professionalism in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty across all theatres of operation.
He noted that their sacrifices had continued to yield significant operational successes nationwide.
The defence chief also paid tribute to fallen heroes and acknowledged the crucial role of military families, describing their prayers and sacrifices as a silent but powerful force behind every successful mission.
Mr Oluyede thanked the president for his unwavering support of the armed forces, as well as the service chiefs for their leadership and commitment to improving the welfare and morale of personnel.
(NAN)