Senator Ali Ndume has praised President Bola Tinubu for implementing the promised salary increase for members of the Armed Forces, describing the move as a significant step toward improving the welfare and morale of military personnel.
The lawmaker, who previously served as Senate Leader and chaired the Senate Committee on Army, said the fulfilment of the pledge demonstrates the administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other security threats.
Ndume said government promises often fail to materialise, making the implementation of the new salary structure a notable achievement.
According to him, improving the welfare of soldiers remains essential to strengthening the country’s security architecture and motivating personnel deployed across various conflict zones.
While applauding the development, he urged officers and soldiers to intensify their efforts in tackling insecurity across the country, arguing that increased remuneration should be matched by renewed commitment to national service.
The senator also highlighted other measures introduced by the administration to strengthen the military, including increased funding for operations, acquisition of weapons and ammunition, recruitment of additional personnel and the activation of Army Aviation capabilities.
He noted that the deployment of attack helicopters across the six geopolitical zones would complement ongoing operations and enhance coordination between ground and air forces.
Ndume further called for improved collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the Air Force, stressing that effective synergy remains crucial to defeating insurgents, kidnappers and bandits.
The commendation follows the commencement of a new military salary package that took effect in September 2026.
Under the revised structure, senior officers above the rank of colonel are expected to receive a 30 per cent salary increase. Personnel from lieutenant colonel to warrant officer will benefit from a 50 per cent increase, while soldiers from private rank to staff sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increment.
The Federal Government estimates that the new package will increase the military wage bill from about ₦660 billion to ₦924 billion annually, with more than 250,000 personnel expected to benefit.
Security experts have long argued that better welfare packages, improved equipment and enhanced operational support are critical to boosting the effectiveness of the Armed Forces in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges
